misdirection

noun

mis·​di·​rec·​tion ˌmis-də-ˈrek-shən How to pronounce misdirection (audio)
-(ˌ)dī-
Synonyms of misdirectionnext
1
: a wrong direction
2
a
: the act or an instance of misdirecting or diverting
b
: the state of being misdirected

Examples of misdirection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell, D-Tampa, called the measure a misdirection of priorities by state lawmakers. Jim Turner, Miami Herald, 30 Mar. 2026 In Washington’s case, Smetters said, that misdirection is written directly into federal law. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 13 Mar. 2026 In a statement, the national track and field governing body determined that the course violated USATF rules and was not adequately marked, which contributed to the misdirection. Kevin Dotson, CNN Money, 4 Mar. 2026 This violation contributed to the misdirection taken by the athletes within the top four at the time of misdirection. CBS News, 3 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for misdirection

Word History

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of misdirection was in 1675

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Misdirection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misdirection. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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