Misinterpret

Origin

From - + interpret.

Full definition of misinterpret

Verb

1. To make an incorrect interpretation; to misunderstand.
• 2012, August 5, Nathan Rabin, TV: Review: THE SIMPSONS (CLASSIC): “I Love Lisa” (season 4, episode 15; originally aired 02/11/1993), For Ralph, any encouragement is too much. When Lisa gives Ralph a valentine bearing that locomotive pun that so affected The Simpsons’ showrunner, Ralph misinterprets the gesture as a genuine display of romantic interest rather than a gesture of pity from a thoughtful young geek to a friendless goober.

Derived terms

• misinterpretable
• misinterpretation
• misinterpreter