Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

misnomer

noun
/ˌmɪsˈnoʊmɚ/
Definition
A wrong or inaccurate name or designation.
Examples
  • Referring to a skyscraper as a ‘tall building’ is a misnomer, as it does not capture its true height.
  • The term ‘English horn’ is a misnomer because it is actually a type of oboe.
Meaning
The term ‘misnomer’ refers to a name that is misleading, incorrect, or not suitable for the person, object, or concept it describes.
Synonyms
  • mislabeling
  • misnaming
  • incorrect term