malfeasance
wrongdoing especially by a public official
Roots
- fac / fic / fact: do or make
- mal: bad or wrong
Other words with the fac / fic / fact root
- affectation: an artificial display meant to impress
- artificial: made by humans; not natural
- benefactor: person who gives help, money, or support
- beneficent: doing good or producing benefit
- beneficial: helpful or producing good effects
- certify: to confirm officially as true
- effect: a result or outcome
- efficacious: effective; producing the intended result
Malfeasance is bad doing: mal plus action that violates trust.
The audit uncovered malfeasance hidden behind polite reports.