Synonyms

screwup

American

[skroo-uhp] / ˈskruˌʌp /

Or screw-up

noun

Slang.

a mistake or blunder.

The package was delayed through an addressing screwup.
a habitual blunderer.

Etymology

Origin of screwup

1955–60; noun use of verb phrase screw up

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.

Travis is a well-meaning screwup who comes from a family of cops but can’t get a place on the police force.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 6, 2025

But losing a vote you were supposed to win looks an awful lot more like a screwup to us.

From Slate • May 3, 2025

"How the information was exposed was an absolutely hilarious screwup".

From Reuters • Aug. 7, 2023

You know, she's a screwup, she's not great.

From Salon • Apr. 30, 2023

“I’m so sorry, you guys. You supported me all the way, and I ruined everything. This screwup might even hurt Dino-land!”

From "Linked" by Gordon Korman

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023