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>