What does mislabel mean?
Mislabel means to give something the wrong name, category, description, or identifying mark. The verb is used for physical products, food, chemicals, biological specimens, files, and digital items whenever their stated identity or composition does not accurately match reality. Its usual implication is that an error or deliberate misrepresentation has created a risk of confusion. “Mislabel a product” and “mislabel a specimen” are especially common applications. The term can therefore describe both an innocent administrative mistake and an intentional attempt to deceive. It is more precise than simply making a mistake because it emphasizes the act of applying a false or unsuitable label. In consumer and regulatory contexts, the word often carries legal and safety implications, especially when mislabeled products could affect what people consume, use, or purchase.
verbTo attach an incorrect or misleading label or description to something.
- To attach an incorrect or misleading label or description to a person, object, product, document, specimen, or other thing.
"The manufacturer was accused of mislabeling the product as containing organic ingredients."
"The researcher was careful not to mislabel the samples before sending them to the laboratory."
"Some packages mislabel the product as dairy-free despite the presence of milk ingredients."
Mislabeling a product can turn a small packaging error into a legal, financial, and public-relations problem.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mislabel come from?
The word was formed in the 19th century by combining the prefix “mis-” with “label.” The prefix expresses error or incorrectness, while “label” refers to a written or attached description. Although English has many other compounds built with “mis-,” the specific word developed as a general term for attaching the wrong designation to something.
Related word forms
How mislabel is actually used
The word is formal but broadly understandable. In British English, the spelling is usually “mislabelling”; in American English, “mislabeling” is standard.
Easily confused with mislabel
Mislabel means to give something the wrong label or description, whereas mislay means to put it somewhere and then lose track of it.