misinterpret

[ mis-in-tur-prit ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to interpret, explain, or understand incorrectly.

misinterpret

/ ˌmɪsɪnˈtɜːprɪt /

verb

1. tr to interpret badly, misleadingly, or incorrectly

Derived Forms

• ˌmisinˌterpreˈtation, noun
• ˌmisinˈterpreter, noun

Other Words From

• misin·terpret·a·ble adjective
• misin·terpre·tation noun
• misin·terpret·er noun
• unmis·in·terpret·a·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of misinterpret¹

First recorded in 1580–90; mis- ¹ + interpret

Example Sentences

He said on radio he was "heartbroken" by the backlash, and believed the moment had been misinterpreted.

From BBC

His purview would include programs and departments he has fiercely criticized in the past, often in ways that opponents say distort or ignore facts and misinterpret science.

From Los Angeles Times

It also said that the principles of the bill misinterpreted the Treaty of Waitangi and that this "caused significant prejudice to Māori".

From BBC

"It was never my intention to misinterpret this deeply painful issue," he said in a statement.

From BBC

I also worry that my beloved 47 hat will be misinterpreted.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• distort
• err
• falsify
• garble
• miscalculate
• misread
• misrepresent
• misunderstand