misstep

American  

[mis-step] / mɪsˈstɛp /

noun

1. a wrong step.

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

   Synonyms:

   indiscretion, lapse, transgression, fault

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misstep British  

/ ˌmɪsˈstɛp /

noun

1. a false step

2. an error

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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

He was detained for a year, as his attorneys and family were hesitant to post bail, fearing Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention or deportation, a travesty already enough for one misstep.

From Slate • Mar. 19, 2026

Another Plan 2 graduate, Chris Hinchliff said the decision to freeze the repayment threshold was a "misstep" and urged the government to "get on and deal with this" before the next general election.

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2026

It’s more about the winners and losers, while the stock market is quick to punish any misstep.

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

He will never admit to a single misstep.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2026

Despite my good intentions, I often blunder, misstep, and stumble.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Related Words

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