misconception

noun

plural misconceptions
Synonyms of misconception
: a wrong or inaccurate idea or conception
a common/popular misconception
There's this misconception that you get famous and everything is perfect.Chris Daughtry
The new name, along with more stringent criteria for diagnosing the disorder, represents an attempt to clear up misconceptions about the disorder and to have it taken more seriously by psychiatrists as well as the courts.Janny Scott
Many gardeners are under the misconception [=have the mistaken idea] that bamboos grow only in mild climates.Nan Sterman
… artists, writers, and musicians who labor under the misconception that it's possible to come up with something new under the sun …Simon Reynolds

Examples of misconception in a Sentence

it is a popular misconception that the Great Wall of China is visible from outer space
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The biggest misconception about the trade has been thinking George is washed as a player. Tony Jones, New York Times, 2 July 2026 Owens also cleared up a couple of common misconceptions about copperheads, pointing out that some people believe the snakes lay eggs. Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 6 July 2026 There is also a common misconception that floor seats are automatically the best. Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 June 2026 Experts say the misconceptions have often delayed diagnosis and brought stigma for children and their families. ABC News, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for misconception

Word History

First Known Use

1614, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of misconception was in 1614

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Misconception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misconception. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

misconception

noun
mis·​con·​cep·​tion
ˌmis-kən-ˈsep-shən
: a wrong or mistaken idea

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