What does mistype mean?
Mistype is a verb meaning to type or enter something incorrectly, usually by pressing the wrong key or making a spelling mistake. It commonly appears in situations involving words, names, commands, passwords, addresses, and other typed information. The word is useful when the emphasis is on the act of making an error, while “typo” more often names the erroneous result itself. Mistyping is generally an accidental and minor fault, although it can have serious consequences when it affects a password, command, financial detail, or important message. The term is used in both British and American English and is common in everyday conversation as well as in technical and instructional writing. Its simple construction combines the prefix “mis-” with “type,” making the meaning immediately transparent.
verbTo type a word, name, command, or other text incorrectly, especially by pressing the wrong keys. “Mistype” can also refer to the act of entering something incorrectly.
- To type or enter a word, name, command, or other text incorrectly.
- To make an error when entering information, such as a password, address, or message.
"I mistyped the address, so the package was sent to the wrong street."
"She mistyped the recipient's email address and had to send the message again."
"The command failed because I mistyped the option name."
A single wrong keystroke can turn a polished message into a memorable typo.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mistype come from?
The word was formed in English by combining the prefix “mis-” with the verb “type.” It belongs to a family of English words connected with typesetting, typography, and written forms, including “typo,” “typist,” and “typical.” The sense of entering text incorrectly developed alongside modern typing and computing practices.
Related word forms
How mistype is actually used
Common in everyday and technical contexts. It is usually neutral or mildly self-deprecating, focusing on the accidental error rather than the writer's competence.
Easily confused with mistype
A “typo” is the incorrectly typed word itself, whereas “mistype” is the action of typing something incorrectly.