misallocate
verbUK /ˌmɪsˈæləkeɪt/
US /ˌmɪsˈæləkeɪt/
To give something to the wrong person or use it in the wrong way.
The teacher misallocated the art supplies, so one group got too many paints and another got none.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. To put money into the wrong part of a plan or budget.
The company misallocated funds and had to cancel the project.
3. To give time or effort to something that does not need it most.
He misallocated his study time and forgot to prepare for the math test.
4. To send people or things to the wrong place or job.
The manager misallocated staff, leaving the front desk empty.