MALFUNCTION Synonyms: 15 Similar and Opposite Words

malfunction

verb

Definition of malfunction

as in to fail

to fail to function or work properly A software problem is causing the system to malfunction.

Related Words

Relevance

Dissimilar Words

start (up)

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of malfunction For the rest of the industry, that could put the onus on an array of nascent technologies, from unproven launch vehicles to a troubled astronaut spacecraft under development by Boeing that previously malfunctioned with two NASA astronauts aboard. — Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2026 Classes are canceled for a second day at Magnolia West High School after a water well malfunctioned, leaving the school without water and air conditioning. — Sondra Hernandez, Houston Chronicle, 30 Sep. 2026 But helium leaks and malfunctioning thrusters raised safety concerns, leading NASA to decide Williams and Wilmore could not return to Earth onboard Calypso. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 28 Sep. 2026 The order came after the plant malfunctioned weeks earlier and would need a costly repair to reopen. — Noelle Phillips, Denver Post, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for malfunction

Recent Examples of Synonyms for malfunction

Verb

Since then, multiple efforts to phase out or ban horse carriages have failed.

— Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 14 Oct. 2026
The exchange of threats comes as Saudi Arabia investigates why its air defenses failed to intercept a barrage of missiles and drones fired by the Houthis.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of fail

Verb

At most, the emissions of plasma crashing into our atmosphere might paint the sky in pretty shades of green or pink.

— Mike McRae October 15, New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2026
Physical tabletop models helped the crew determine how a vehicle should crash through a building when there was no time for elaborate previws.

— Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of crash

Browse Nearby Words

malformed

malfunction

malfunctioned

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Malfunction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/malfunction. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of malfunction

verb

Example Sentences

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