Definition

To hear something incorrectly or to misunderstand what was said.

Example

I often mishear the lyrics of my favorite songs.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think I might have misheard what she said in class.

Really? What do you think you heard?

I thought she mentioned a quiz next week, but now I'm not sure.

You should ask her to clarify — just to be safe!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mishear → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "hear" (from Old English "hyran", meaning to perceive sound). The word "mishear" means to hear something incorrectly or to perceive sound wrongly.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly and 'hear' as perceiving sound — so mishear means to perceive sound incorrectly.

Visually Confused Words