Main Entry: ¹mis·fire

Pronunciation: \ˌmis-ˈfī(-ə)r\

Function: intransitive verb

Date: 1752

1 : to have the explosive or propulsive charge fail to ignite at the proper time <the engine misfired>
2 : to fail to fire <the gun misfired>
3 : to miss an intended effect or objective <the new ad campaign misfired>