Vocabulary Spotlight

Defalcate

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To embezzle funds or misappropriate money entrusted to one’s care.

“The accountant was found guilty of defalcating company funds for personal use.”

Pronunciation

[dih-fal-keyt]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Embezzle
Misappropriate
Steal
Divert
Pilfer

Antonyms

Return
Reimburse
Restore
Repay
Give back

Related Words

Defalcation (noun)

Word Origin

“Defalcate” originated from the Medieval Latin “defalcatus,” meaning to cut off, later evolving to signify taking funds unlawfully.

Word Family

Noun: Defalcation – The act of misappropriating funds.

Mnemonics

Think of “defalcate” as “deficit” due to embezzlement — money that has been taken away or cut from funds.

Industry-specific Usage

Finance

Defalcation is a serious issue in finance, where strict regulations aim to prevent fund misappropriation.

Law

Defalcate is commonly used in legal contexts to describe the criminal act of embezzling entrusted funds.

Nonprofit Management

Nonprofits monitor finances closely to avoid any risk of defalcation, which could damage public trust.

In Context

Defalcation typically involves trust and the misuse of funds, often carrying serious legal and financial consequences for individuals and organizations alike.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. What does “defalcate” mean?

To embezzle or misappropriate funds
To restore funds
To manage finances carefully
To increase savings

“To embezzle or misappropriate funds” is correct, as defalcate refers to the misuse of funds entrusted to someone.

2. Fill in the blank: The treasurer was charged with ________ after discrepancies were found in the accounts.

repayment
investment
defalcation
reimbursement

“Defalcation” is correct as it signifies the misappropriation of funds in accounts.

3. In which situation is defalcation likely to occur?

When funds are misused by someone entrusted with them
When funds are allocated properly
When expenses are repaid accurately
When funds are donated to charity

“When funds are misused by someone entrusted with them” is correct, as defalcation involves the misappropriation of entrusted funds.