misdirection

noun

mis·​di·​rec·​tion ˌmis-də-ˈrek-shən How to pronounce misdirection (audio)
-(ˌ)dī-
Synonyms of misdirectionnext
1
: a wrong direction
2
a
: the act or an instance of misdirecting or diverting
b
: the state of being misdirected

Examples of misdirection in a Sentence

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.
Many seemingly complex magic tricks rely on a simple mix of old-fashioned sleight-of-hand and misdirection. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 1 Apr. 2026 Before settling in for a long chat with one of the most famous and beloved people on the planet, Colbert engaged in some clever misdirection. — Judy Berman, Time, 22 May 2026 But even if the reveal is so anticlimactic as to be more of a misdirection than a murder, a good one will leave us with a singular moment that emotionally resonates. — Andy Andersen, Vulture, 13 Apr. 2026 The solution to the clues was simple and obvious after a lot of misdirection and red herrings — just like every Scooby Doo episode. — Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 24 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for misdirection

Word History

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of misdirection was in 1675

Rhymes for misdirection

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Browse Nearby Words

misdirect
misdirection
misdistribution
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Misdirection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misdirection. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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