What does misfire mean?
A misfire is a failure in which something does not work as intended. In its literal sense, the term usually describes an engine cylinder or other mechanical component that fails to fire or ignite. It can also refer to a complete engine malfunction, especially one characterized by repeated misfires, loss of power, or an uneven running sound. Figuratively, a misfire describes a plan, campaign, operation, or other attempt that produces a disappointing or unsuccessful result. The word often suggests a failure that is disappointing but not entirely unexpected, rather than a complete absence of effort. In a discussion of strategy or policy, saying that an initiative has misfired indicates that it was implemented but did not work in practice. The expression is consequently used in both technical and political, business, and organizational contexts.
To fail to fire, ignite, or operate as intended; to fail to achieve the expected result.
"The rifle misfired, and the hunter checked the mechanism before trying again."
The literal mechanical sense is especially associated with engines, firearms, and other mechanisms. Figurative use is common in formal discussion of plans and strategies.
An instance in which a mechanism fails to fire or operate as intended, or an attempt that fails to produce the expected result.
"The investigation attributed the power loss to a repeated engine misfire."
The noun is commonly used in technical contexts such as engine diagnosis and firearms, as well as figuratively for a failed plan or undertaking.
Used for separate failures of a mechanism to fire or operate as intended, and for separate failed plans, initiatives, or operations.
"The engine continued to run, but it suffered repeated misfires during the journey."
A misfire is what happens when something that should fire simply refuses to cooperate—from an engine cylinder to a carefully made plan.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does misfire come from?
Misfire is formed from the prefix mis-, meaning wrongly or not as intended, and fire. Its earliest familiar uses are mechanical, referring to an engine or other device that fails to fire, although figurative uses developed later for efforts that fail in practice. It shares its basic element with fire, while the prefix clarifies the fault: the mechanism is not firing in the way it should.
Related word forms
How misfire is actually used
The literal sense is common in mechanical and automotive contexts. The figurative sense is formal or semi-formal and describes a plan, strategy, process, or attempt that fails to achieve its intended result.