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.
Whipping up a batch seems like a simple enough endeavor, yet a handful of common missteps can quickly turn the ideal home breakfast into a deflating letdown. Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 May 2026 Some criticism was thoughtful, warranted, and earnestly reflected Kennedy’s surprising strategic missteps while leading Lucasfilm overall. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 23 May 2026 Some writers reveled in printing missteps. Michael Waters, The Atlantic, 21 May 2026 Democrats, meanwhile, have pounced on the president’s messaging missteps. Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 18 May 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 26 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

misstep

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

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