malfunction
verb [ I ]
/ˌmælˈfʌŋkʃən/ ukusif a machine or system malfunctions, it stops working normally:
The system is designed to stop computers getting too hot and malfunctioning.
malfunction
noun [ C or U ]
/ˌmælˈfʌŋkʃən/ ukusa situation in which a machine or system stops working normally:
Investigators believe the spillage was caused by a malfunction at the plant in the immediate aftermath of the earth tremor.
a technical/mechanical/electrical malfunction
a computer/equipment/system(s) malfunction