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Misfits Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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misfits

[ˈmɪsfɪts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

TV show

A misfit is a person whose behavior or attitude sets them apart from others in an uncomfortable or awkward way. They often feel like they don't fit in with mainstream society.

Synonyms

eccentric, outsider, rebel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
outsider

Best used when talking about someone who does not belong to a particular social group or community, often feeling excluded or isolated.

  • As a new employee, he felt like an outsider in the office
  • Despite living in the village for years, she was still considered an outsider
eccentric

Ideal when referring to someone who has unusual or odd behaviors or ways of thinking, often in a harmless and sometimes endearing way.

  • Her eccentric habit of wearing mismatched shoes caught everyone's attention
  • The scientist was known for his eccentric theories
rebel

Applicable when describing someone who resists authority, control, or tradition, often in a bold and defiant way. This term can have a negative connotation depending on the context.

  • She was known as a rebel in school, always challenging the rules
  • The young artist was a rebel, refusing to conform to the traditional art styles

Examples of usage

  • He always felt like a misfit in high school, never quite fitting in with any particular group.
  • The TV show 'Misfits' follows a group of young offenders who develop superpowers, making them even more misfits in society.
Context #2 | Noun

General

A misfit is also a small piece or part that is not fitting or matching correctly with the rest. It can also refer to a person or thing that is not suitable for a particular purpose or situation.

Synonyms

inappropriate, incongruity, mismatch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
misfits

Refers to people or things that do not fit into a group or situation. Often used to describe people who feel they don't belong in a social setting.

  • He always felt like a misfit in school.
  • The team of misfits was determined to prove everyone wrong.
mismatch

Refers to a pairing or combination of things that do not go well together. Often used in situations involving comparison or selection.

  • The mismatch between their skills and the job requirements became apparent quickly.
  • The colors were a total mismatch and clashed horribly.
incongruity

Describes a lack of harmony or compatibility between things. Often used in more formal or literary contexts.

  • The incongruity of the modern sculpture in the ancient church was striking.
  • There was a notable incongruity between his cheerful demeanor and the serious content of his speech.
inappropriate

Describes something that is not suitable or proper in a specific situation. Often used in formal settings.

  • Wearing jeans to a wedding is considered inappropriate.
  • His comments during the meeting were completely inappropriate.

Examples of usage

  • She tried to fix the puzzle, but there was a misfit piece that didn't belong.
  • The old computer was a misfit in the modern office, unable to run the latest software.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In 1995, a film titled 'The Misfits' featured a group of outcasts, reinforcing the idea that differences can lead to powerful connections.
  • The term is also the name of a punk rock band, symbolizing rebellion and individuality.
  • Popular TV shows often celebrate misfits, portraying how their unique traits can lead to friendships and adventures.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that being labeled a 'misfit' can lead to both feelings of isolation and the drive for creativity.
  • Many renowned artists and inventors were considered misfits, illustrating that being different often fosters innovation.

Literature

  • Classic novels often highlight misfits, such as in 'The Outsiders,' where characters struggle with fitting into societal roles.
  • Children's literature frequently features misfit characters to teach empathy and the value of diversity.

Social Movements

  • Many movements encourage misfits to unite, advocating for acceptance and celebration of differences in identity, culture, and lifestyle.
  • The term 'misfit' is often embraced in LGBTQ+ communities, signifying pride in one's uniqueness.

Origin of 'misfits'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'misfit' combines 'mis-' (meaning wrong or bad) and 'fit,' originating in the 19th century.
  • Initially used in literature to describe someone who doesn't conform to societal norms before becoming a popular term.

The word 'misfit' originated in the mid-19th century, combining 'mis-' (meaning 'badly') and 'fit' (meaning 'suitable'). It initially referred to a person who is poorly suited to a particular role or situation. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a broader sense of not fitting in or belonging, capturing the essence of being an outsider or nonconformist.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,977, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.