Definition

A person who does not fit in well with others or is different from the group, often feeling out of place.

Example

He felt like a misfit in the new school because he had different interests than his classmates.

Conversation

I always felt like a bit of a misfit in high school.

Really? I thought you fit in well with everyone.

Not really, I just pretended to blend in.

I get that; sometimes it’s hard to find your place.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Misfit → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrong or badly) and "fit" (from Old English "fittan", meaning to fit or to be suitable). The word "misfit" describes someone or something that does not fit in or is unsuitable in a particular context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'wrongly' ('mis-') placed or 'not suitable' ('fit') in a situation — that's what a misfit is.

Visually Confused Words