'misformulation' originates from Modern English, specifically formed from the prefix 'mis-' and the noun 'formulation', where 'mis-' meant 'wrong(ly)' (from Old English 'mis-') and 'formulation' ultimately derives from Latin 'formula' meaning 'a small form or rule'.

'formulation' traces back to Latin 'formula' → Old French 'formule' → Middle English 'formula'; from the verb 'formulate' (adopted into English in the 17th century) came the noun 'formulation'; the modern English prefix 'mis-' was later attached to produce 'misformulation'.

Initially, 'formula' meant 'a small form or rule'; over time it developed into 'a set expression or method' and later to 'the act or result of formulating'; with the negative prefix 'mis-' the compound now denotes an incorrect or flawed formulation.