misdirection

noun

mis·​di·​rec·​tion ˌmis-də-ˈrek-shən How to pronounce misdirection (audio)
-(ˌ)dī-
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 Fans have already formulated a theory that perhaps this is all a big bit of misdirection. Paul Tassi, Forbes, 20 Sep. 2024 As such, this cohort feels that white supremacy can be a confusing emphasis if not willful misdirection. Andrew Cockburn, Harper's Magazine, 22 Aug. 2024 Fatal Intrusion By Jeffery Deaver and Isabella Maldonado Thomas & Mercer: 444 pages, $29 Out now This first-time collaboration starts with some brilliant misdirection in introducing Dennison Fallow, who viciously kills a man in San Diego. Paula L. Woods, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2024 His entire orientation is as a defense counsel and his style of advocacy, in my view, has been misdirection. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 27 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for misdirection 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'misdirection.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of misdirection was in 1675

Dictionary Entries Near misdirection

Cite this Entry

“Misdirection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misdirection. Accessed 11 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on misdirection

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