misfire

1 of 2

verb

mis·​fire ˌmis-ˈfī(-ə)r 

misfired; misfiring; misfires

intransitive verb

1

: to have the explosive or propulsive charge fail to ignite at the proper time

the engine misfired

2

: to fail to fire

the gun misfired

3

: to miss an intended effect or objective

the new ad campaign misfired

misfire

2 of 2

noun

mis·​fire ˌmis-ˈfī(-ə)r 

ˈmis-ˌfī(-ə)r

1

: a failure (as of a cartridge or firearm) to fire

2

: something that misfires

Synonyms

Verb

• miscarry

Examples of misfire in a Sentence

Verb

their scheme to rob the bank misfired disastrously and landed them all in jail

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

But pro kickers have also misfired on crucial kicks from shorter range. —David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 16 Dec. 2024

Before the Starliner crew even reached the ISS, however, five of the spacecraft’s thrusters began misfiring, and the supply of a gaseous helium that keeps the thrusters pressurized sprang five leaks. —Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 15 Aug. 2024

Noun

Nice to see an article focused on the actual hockey being played - the misfires of management durinh the offseason is probably the most underdiscussed aspect of the team's performance. —Thomas Drance, The Athletic, 6 Jan. 2025

Lululemon’s growth was hindered by its mistakes, including a high-profile product launch misfire earlier in 2024 and failure to meet customer demand for certain colors and sizes. —Trefis Team, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1752, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1789, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

misfire

verb

mis·​fire

(ˈ)mis-ˈfī(ə)r

1

: to have the explosive or driving charge fail to ignite at the proper time

the engine misfired

2

: to fail to fire

the gun misfired

3

: to miss an intended effect

the plan misfired

misfire noun