Maladministrate: meaning, definitions and examples

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maladministrate

 

[ ˌmælədˈmɪnɪstreɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

poor management

To maladministrate means to manage or administer something poorly or ineffectively, often resulting in negative consequences. This term typically refers to the mishandling of governmental or organizational affairs.

Synonyms

bungle, misgovern, mismanage

Examples of usage

  • The municipality was accused of maladministrating public funds.
  • Incompetent leadership led the company to maladministrate its resources.
  • Many believe that the agency has maladministrated several important programs.

Etymology

The word 'maladministrate' is derived from the prefix 'mal-', which comes from Latin meaning 'bad' or 'wrong', and 'administrate', which comes from the Latin 'administrare', meaning 'to manage or direct'. Thus, the term combines the notions of poor or wrongful management. The concept has historical significance, particularly in the context of political and administrative systems, where maladministration often leads to public dissatisfaction and can provoke significant social unrest. The emergence of this term is reflective of the increasing scrutiny and accountability demanded of government and corporate leadership in the modern era. It became particularly popular in legal and political discussions during the 20th century, as more emphasis was put on efficiency and ethics in administrative practices.