Peculated: meaning, definitions and examples

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peculated

 

[ ˈpɛkjʊleɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

financial misconduct

To peculate means to embezzle or steal funds, particularly in a position of trust or authority. This term is often used in legal and financial contexts, referring to the act of misappropriating money or property that has been entrusted to someone’s care. Peculation is considered a serious offense and can lead to significant legal penalties. The term is derived from actions typically associated with public officials and can also apply to private individuals who improperly use another's resources.

Synonyms

defraud, embezzle, misappropriate

Examples of usage

  • The accountant peculated funds from the company.
  • She was charged with peculation after the audit revealed discrepancies.
  • The mayor was accused of peculating taxpayer money.

Translations

Translations of the word "peculated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desviado

🇮🇳 ग़बन किया हुआ

🇩🇪 veruntreut

🇮🇩 menyalahgunakan

🇺🇦 розкрадений

🇵🇱 sprzeniewierzony

🇯🇵 横領された

🇫🇷 détourné

🇪🇸 desviado

🇹🇷 sahtekarca kullanılmış

🇰🇷 횡령된

🇸🇦 مُختلس

🇨🇿 zpronevěřený

🇸🇰 spreneverený

🇨🇳 挪用的

🇸🇮 pridobljen

🇮🇸 snyrtur

🇰🇿 жымқырылған

🇬🇪 გაცდენილი

🇦🇿 dələduzluq edilmiş

🇲🇽 desviado

Word origin

The term 'peculate' comes from the Latin root 'peculatus', which means 'to embezzle'. It is derived from 'peculum', referring to property, especially in the context of private property or wealth. In Roman times, 'peculum' was often used to describe the assets owned by a slave that could be saved or spent by them. Over time, the definition evolved to emphasize wrongful or inappropriate use of these funds. 'Peculate' entered the English lexicon in the early 19th century and has since maintained its connotation of financial dishonesty, particularly in connection with public officials or individuals in positions of responsibility. Its usage continues today, particularly in legal and financial discussions surrounding ethics and accountability.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,314, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.