misunderstood
adjective
mis·un·der·stood
(ˌ)mi-ˌsən-dər-ˈstu̇d 
1
: wrongly or imperfectly understood
a misunderstood question
Mondegreens are misunderstood lyrics, and when we asked our readers for their favorites, not surprisingly the most familiar ones got multiple votes.—
Dave Tianen
2
: not sympathetically appreciated
[Shorty] Rossi has become a name in the animal rescue community for his fierce advocacy for the interests of the pit bull, which he sees as a misunderstood breed.—Publishers Weekly
He speaks proudly and protectively of his two directing efforts as if they were beloved but misunderstood children, and he's touchingly eager to explain their unappreciated virtues.—Ron Rosenbaum
Examples of misunderstood in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The Board reports that domestic violence in Oklahoma has increased significantly in recent years, remains substantially underreported, and is routinely misunderstood by law enforcement and courts.
—Stephen Martin, Oklahoma Watch, 13 Jan. 2026
In fact, Weir was such a pioneer that for many years his unique approach to rhythm guitar was often misunderstood, overlooked, and underrated.
—Alan Paul, Rolling Stone, 11 Jan. 2026
However, this could be because research is limited, and many cases likely go unreported or are misunderstood.
—Lindsey Getz, Parents, 10 Jan. 2026
That distinction is critical, and often misunderstood.
—Bridget Shirvell, Martha Stewart, 8 Jan. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Misunderstood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misunderstood. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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