Langimage
English

misdirect

|mis/di/rect|

B2

/ˌmɪs.dɪˈrɛkt/

wrong direction

Etymology
Etymology Information

'misdirect' originates from Middle English, specifically the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' and the verb 'direct' meaning 'to guide or manage'.

Historical Evolution

'misdirect' changed from the Middle English word 'misdirecten' and eventually became the modern English word 'misdirect'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to guide wrongly', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to send someone or something to the wrong place or in the wrong direction.

The letter was misdirected to the wrong department.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to use or apply something inappropriately or wrongly.

The funds were misdirected to non-essential projects.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39