Definition

To provide something in a wrong or incorrect way, especially in terms of feeding or supplying materials.

Example

The printer misfed the paper, causing a jam.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think I might have misfeed my cat again.

Oh no! What did you give her this time?

I accidentally gave her some of my leftovers instead of her food.

That explains it! Cats can be pretty picky about their meals.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Misfeed → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "feed" (from Old English "fēdan", meaning to provide food or nourishment). The word "misfeed" means to provide food or nourishment in a wrong or improper way.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly and 'feed' meaning to provide nourishment — so misfeed means to provide nourishment incorrectly.

Visually Confused Words