CultureJuly 4, 2026

misfire

/ˈmɪsˌfaɪər/

Definition

A failure to achieve a successful or desired result; a flop or disappointment.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' and the verb 'fire,' originally referring to a gun failing to discharge properly. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe any endeavor or performance that fails to hit its target.

In the news

The critic uses the word to describe the film 'Supergirl,' suggesting that the production failed to meet expectations or achieve the quality of its predecessors. It highlights the reviewer's opinion that the film is a lackluster entry in the DC Universe franchise.

Friday Film Review | 'Supergirl'

Read the full article ↗

KPCW

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.