Definition

To call a phone number incorrectly by pressing the wrong digits.

Example

I accidentally misdialed my friend's number and called a stranger instead.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I tried to call you yesterday, but I must have misdialed your number.

Really? I didn't get any missed calls from you.

That’s strange! I hope I didn't call someone random instead.

It happens! Just double-check next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Misdial → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "dial" (from Old French *dialer*, meaning to select or choose a number). The word "misdial" means to wrongly select or choose a number when dialing a phone.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly, and 'dial' as selecting a number. This helps you remember that misdial means to select a number incorrectly.

Visually Confused Words