mischaracterize

verb

mis·​char·​ac·​ter·​ize ˌmis-ˈker-ik-tə-ˌrīz How to pronounce mischaracterize (audio)
-ˈka-rik-
mischaracterized; mischaracterizing

transitive verb

: to characterize (someone or something) wrongly
mischaracterized his position on the issue
In many cases, the problems that the news media, activists, and politicians hype are real enough; however they are frequently greatly exaggerated and mischaracterized …—Benjamin Radford

Examples of mischaracterize 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.
Gatti and others expressed support of AB 2624, saying opponents have mischaracterized its intent. — Hannah Ruhoff, Sacbee.com, 27 Aug. 2026 The reporter completely mischaracterized my comments made on numerous occasions over the past 16 months about 'masks' and the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 26 Aug. 2026 In response to questions, Bonta said that Paramount had crossed a line by mischaracterizing the substance of the conversations. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 25 Aug. 2026 But a common refrain, for Hastings and others, is that developers aren’t adhering to the spirit of the comprehensive plan and could be mischaracterizing their intentions. — Rose Evans august 9, Idaho Statesman, 9 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mischaracterize

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mischaracterize was in 1798

Rhymes for mischaracterize

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Browse Nearby Words

mischaracterization
mischaracterize
mischarge
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mischaracterize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mischaracterize. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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