misconception

noun

mis·​con·​cep·​tion ˌmis-kən-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce misconception (audio)
plural misconceptions
Synonyms of misconceptionnext
: 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.
Still, myths and misconceptions are persistent. Emily Maskell, IndieWire, 3 Apr. 2026 The misconception is primarily because the budget is still listed as being in the billions. Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 2 Apr. 2026 That sense of belonging stood in contrast to ongoing misconceptions about the trans community. J.m. Banks march 31, Kansas City Star, 31 Mar. 2026 The Ideal Time to Stock Up On Sunscreen While the common misconception is that sunscreen is only needed in the summer, Farhang recommends wearing sunscreen year-round. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Misconception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misconception. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

misconception

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

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