misfire
verb (used without object)
(of a rifle or gun or of a bullet or shell) to fail to fire or explode.
have misfired
-
present perfectof misfire.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Cohen says that progressives have misfired in their decision to challenge him.
From Salon ● Oct. 14, 2025
Lately, other movie musicals have misfired at the box office.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 25, 2024
It said about 20 percent have misfired and landed in Gaza.
From Washington Post ● Aug. 7, 2022
One of the 2019 intake was under no illusions about Mr Cummings' role, but nonetheless felt that his attacks would have misfired if the prime minister himself had not given him the ammunition.
From BBC ● Jan. 18, 2022
Whatever Tom had planned must have misfired, or something would have happened by now.
From Gold in the Sky by Llewellyn
