misgive

[ mis-giv ]

verb (used with object)

, mis·gave, mis·giv·en, mis·giv·ing.

1. (of one's mind, heart, etc.) to give doubt or apprehension to.

verb (used without object)

, mis·gave, mis·giv·en, mis·giv·ing.

1. to be apprehensive.

misgive

/ mɪsˈɡɪv /

verb

1. to make or be apprehensive or suspicious

Word History and Origins

Origin of misgive¹

First recorded in 1505–15; mis- ¹ + give

Example Sentences

My heart misgave; a sudden fear struck me.

From Literature

My heart misgave me when I got under the shade.

From Project Gutenberg

Oh, my heart misgave me when he used so many vows and protestations last night that he would not have Pharold put in danger for the world.

From Project Gutenberg

My heart misgives me for you; and I can never sanction a day in unlawful pursuits.

From Project Gutenberg

Her heart misgave her; he was her foster-child—dear to her as her own.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• distrust
• hesitate
• impugn
• suspect