Mispelled: meaning, definitions and examples

✍️
Add to dictionary

mispelled

 

[ mɪsˈpɛld ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

text error

Misspelled refers to a word that has been written incorrectly according to standard spelling rules. This term is commonly used in educational contexts to address spelling mistakes in writing.

Synonyms

incorrectly spelled, mistyped, wrongly spelled

Examples of usage

  • The word 'definately' is a misspelled version of 'definitely'.
  • Please check your essay for any misspelled words.
  • I often misspell difficult words when I write quickly.

Word origin

The word 'misspelled' is a compound of the prefix 'mis-' and the word 'spell'. The prefix 'mis-' comes from Old English and means 'wrongly' or 'badly'. 'Spell' itself comes from Old English 'spellian', which means to read or recount. The idea of misspelling has been part of language and literacy since the written word began, as all writing is subject to errors and mistakes. The usage of 'misspelled' has become more prominent with the rise of formal education and standardized testing, where spelling is a critical skill being assessed. The evolution of language and changes in orthography also contribute to the occurrence of misspellings, as sometimes words may shift in spelling over time while others remain traditional.