1. A criminal offense that is less serious than a felony; a minor crime.
Usage: Chiefly British spelling; American English uses 'misdemeanor'.; Legal term.
2. A minor misbehavior or improper conduct; a petty wrongdoing.
Usage: Informal or general use.

Examples

• He was charged with several misdemeanours including trespassing and disorderly conduct.
• The judge sentenced him to six months in jail for the misdemeanour.
• Shoplifting is typically classified as a misdemeanour rather than a felony.
• Her childhood misdemeanours were forgotten long ago.
• The officer cited him for a traffic misdemeanour.
• Minor misdemeanours in school can result in detention.