misfortune

[ mis-fawr-chuhn ]

noun

1. adverse fortune; bad luck.
2. an instance of this; mischance; mishap.

   Synonyms: blow, reverse, catastrophe, calamity, disaster, accident

misfortune

/ mɪsˈfɔːtʃən /

noun

1. evil fortune; bad luck
2. an unfortunate or disastrous event; calamity

Word History and Origins

Origin of misfortune¹

1400–50; late Middle English. See mis- ¹, fortune

Synonym Study

See affliction.

Example Sentences

That film’s box office success served as evidence that “My So-Called Life’” had the misfortune of being ever-so-slightly ahead of its time.

From Los Angeles Times

A 43rd century of the season allowed Trump to draw level and with Wilson's play punctuated by loose safety shots, unexpected missed pots and moments of misfortune, he took full advantage.

From BBC

The BBC contacted the car park operator, which said Miss Hudson had breached its terms and conditions and was "the author of her own misfortune".

From BBC

“I think it’s fortune within misfortune,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

His said his mum taught him and his two brothers to "raise our expectations", "never to be victims" and not dwell on misfortunes.

From BBC

Related Words

• adversity
• affliction
• bad luck
• calamity
• cataclysm
• catastrophe
• debacle
• disadvantage
• disappointment
• discomfort
• hardship
• inconvenience
• misadventure
• misery
• mishap
• setback
• tragedy
• tribulation