infraction

noun

Etymology: From Middle French infraction, from Latin infractio, from infractum, past participle of infringere, from in (“in”) + frangere (“to break”).

1. A minor offence, petty crime.

   “Even stealing a pack of gum is an infraction in the eyes of the law.”

   “Pretending a litterbug and a spree killer have committed equivalent infractions doesn’t make people safer.”

2. A violation; breach.

   “A team's first infraction could mean a fine of up to $25,000.”

3. A major violation of rules which leads to a penalty, if detected by the referee.