misstep

American  

[mis-step] / mɪsˈstɛp /

noun

1. a wrong step.

2. an error or slip in conduct; faux pas.

   Synonyms:

   indiscretion, lapse, transgression, fault

---

misstep British  

/ ˌmɪsˈstɛp /

noun

1. a false step

2. an error

---

Etymology

Origin of misstep

First recorded in 1250–1300, misstep is from the Middle English word missteppen. See mis- ¹, step

Explanation

An accidental blunder or mistake is a misstep. Companies can be quick to save money by firing workers, even if economists say the decision is a possible misstep. Misstep began as a verb, from the 14th-century missteppen, "to step wrongly." Around 1800 the word started being used as a noun with the figurative meaning of "faux pas" or "blunder." You can make a misstep in so many ways: by wearing a tie-dyed T-shirt to a formal wedding, by confusing salt for sugar when you're baking a cake, or by gossiping about someone who's standing behind you.

Example Sentences

That imbalance is precisely why “Supergirl” being a flagrant misstep is such a disappointment.

From Salon • Jun. 27, 2026

That now looks a colossal misstep from the Scottish champions, given the bargain McGinn has proved to be south of the border.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

They’re stumbling through choreography, rehearsing and laughing with each misstep.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

While the reasons for his dismissal aren’t clear, his appointment appears to be another misstep by the board, she says.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

I’m too stunned to consider ways to salvage any cell-block pride out of my misstep.

From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz

Related Words

• blunder
• error
• failure
• gaffe
• indiscretion
• lapse
• miscue
• slipup
• stumble