peculation

noun

pec·​u·​la·​tion ˌpe-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce peculation (audio)
: misappropriation especially of public funds

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin peculation-, peculatio, from Latin peculari to embezzle, from peculium private property, from pecu cattle

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Cite this Entry

“Peculation.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/peculation. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

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