# misnomer

/mɪsˈnoʊmɝ/ (US) · /mɪsnˈəʊmɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/misnomer
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a name that is wrong or misleading because it does not describe the thing correctly. You use this when something is called by a name that makes it sound different from what it really is.

For teachers: a name that is incorrect or misleading in its application to a person or thing. Often used to describe a title or label that fails to accurately represent the subject's nature or function.

## Examples

- Calling the small dog a 'beagle' is a misnomer.
- The term 'blue moon' is a misnomer because the moon does not actually appear blue during this event.
- While the term 'cold war' is widely accepted in historical discourse, some scholars argue it is a misnomer, as the period was marked by several proxy conflicts and significant military spending.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.