misconception

noun

mis·​con·​cep·​tion ˌmis-kən-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce misconception (audio)
plural misconceptions
: a wrong or inaccurate idea or conception
a common/popular misconception
There's this misconception that you get famous and everything is perfect.Chris Daughtry
The new name, along with more stringent criteria for diagnosing the disorder, represents an attempt to clear up misconceptions about the disorder and to have it taken more seriously by psychiatrists as well as the courts.Janny Scott
Many gardeners are under the misconception [=have the mistaken idea] that bamboos grow only in mild climates.Nan Sterman
… artists, writers, and musicians who labor under the misconception that it's possible to come up with something new under the sun …Simon Reynolds

Examples of misconception in a Sentence

it is a popular misconception that the Great Wall of China is visible from outer space
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The misconception that only older caregivers need support is dangerously flawed. Joseph Coughlin, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 Passive income streams are set-it-and-forget-it Perhaps the biggest misconception is that passive income streams run on autopilot forever once they’re established. Amy Landino, Contributor, CNBC, 20 Mar. 2025 What is the biggest misconception businesses have about ESG compliance and corporate sustainability? Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 17 Mar. 2025 Despite its widespread use, there are many misconceptions about melatonin, its potential side effects, and its interactions with medications and other supplements. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 17 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for misconception

Word History

First Known Use

1614, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of misconception was in 1614

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Cite this Entry

“Misconception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misconception. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

misconception

noun
mis·​con·​cep·​tion
ˌmis-kən-ˈsep-shən
: a wrong or mistaken idea

More from Merriam-Webster on misconception

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