misstep

noun

mis·​step ˌmis-ˈstep How to pronounce misstep (audio)
Synonyms of misstepnext
1
: a mistake in judgment or action : blunder
missteps that led to the project's failure
2
: a wrong step
took a misstep and fell

Examples of misstep in a Sentence

Their decision to relocate the company was a major misstep. another misstep like that, and the company could go belly-up
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley, however, pushed back on the idea that Patullo’s hire was a misstep. Miami Herald, 24 Feb. 2026 WeWork may have grabbed the headlines, but there were plenty of other missteps. Charlie Campbell, Time, 24 Feb. 2026 But like the British wartime leader who also led his country’s fight against a bigger, more powerful enemy, Zelensky has made missteps along the way and his future looks increasingly uncertain as the war grinds on. Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026 That said, a seven-figure net worth amassed over time comes with a set of financial benefits and complexities that can easily turn into missteps—like a surprise tax bill or family fallout after an inheritance. Joanna Rotenberg, Fortune, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for misstep

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of misstep was in 1788

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Cite this Entry

“Misstep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misstep. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

misstep

noun
mis·​step (ˈ)mis-ˈstep How to pronounce misstep (audio)
1
: a wrong step
2

More from Merriam-Webster on misstep

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