misfire

/mɪsˈfaɪər/
noun
  1. An instance of a gun, engine, or other device failing to fire or ignite properly.
    • The mechanic diagnosed a misfire in the third cylinder.
    • The pilot aborted the launch after a misfire in the booster.
    • There was a loud misfire from the old cannon during the reenactment.
  2. A failure or mistake, especially one that is disappointing or embarrassing.
    • The product launch was a misfire, with many customers complaining.
    • The movie was a misfire at the box office, earning far less than expected.
    • His attempt at a compliment was a total misfire and offended her.
Synonyms
Antonyms
verb
  1. To fail to fire or ignite properly, especially a gun or engine.
    • During the test, the rocket misfired and crashed into the desert.
    • The old pistol misfired when he pulled the trigger.
    • The car's engine misfired and then stalled at the traffic light.
  2. To fail to have the intended effect; to go wrong.
    • The marketing campaign misfired, causing a drop in sales instead of a rise.
    • Their plan to surprise her misfired when she found out ahead of time.
    • The comedian's joke misfired and the audience sat in silence.
What does "misfire" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean