Peculation: meaning, definitions and examples

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peculation

 

[ ˈpɛkjəleɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

financial misconduct

Peculation refers to the act of embezzling or misappropriating funds, typically in a professional setting. It involves the theft of money or property that has been entrusted to someone’s care. Peculation is often associated with public officials or employees who have access to public or private resources. It can lead to legal consequences and loss of trust in institutions. Peculation is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of financial systems.

Synonyms

embezzlement, fraud, misappropriation, theft

Examples of usage

  • The accountant was charged with peculation after diverting company funds.
  • Peculation scandals can severely damage public trust in government.
  • The investigation revealed instances of peculation among city officials.

Translations

Translations of the word "peculation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 peculação

🇮🇳 धन की हेराफेरी

🇩🇪 Unterschlagung

🇮🇩 penggelapan

🇺🇦 зловживання

🇵🇱 malwersacja

🇯🇵 横領

🇫🇷 détournement

🇪🇸 malversación

🇹🇷 yolsuzluk

🇰🇷 횡령

🇸🇦 اختلاس

🇨🇿 zpronevěra

🇸🇰 sprenevera

🇨🇳 挪用

🇸🇮 zloraba

🇮🇸 misnotkun

🇰🇿 тыйым салу

🇬🇪 დამატებითი

🇦🇿 məbləğləri ələ keçirmək

🇲🇽 malversación

Word origin

The term 'peculation' originates from the Latin word 'peculatio', which means 'to embezzle' or 'to misappropriate'. Derived from 'peculium', meaning 'property' or 'money', it historically described the embezzlement of funds, particularly in a public service context. The evolution of this term reflects the societal concerns regarding trust and ethical conduct in financial matters. Its usage has remained significant in legal and financial discussions, especially as economic systems have evolved and increased scrutiny is placed on fiscal responsibilities. Throughout history, peculation has highlighted the vulnerabilities of financial systems and the necessity for accountability and transparency in managing resources. The term has been used in various contexts, including government, corporate, and non-profit sectors, emphasizing the importance of integrity in financial operations.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,725 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.