misinformation

UK: ˌmɪsɪnfəˈmeɪʃən | US: ˌmɪsɪnfərˈmeɪʃən

Definition

  1. n. false or inaccurate information, especially when spread deliberately to deceive.

Structure
mis <wrong>inform <teach/know>ation <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "misinformation" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Mis-" (from Old English "mis-," meaning "wrong" or "badly"),
  2. "Inform" (from Latin "informare," meaning "to shape, teach, or give knowledge"),
  3. "-ation" (a noun-forming suffix indicating an action or result).
    Originally, "inform" referred to imparting knowledge, but with the prefix "mis-," it shifts to imply incorrect or deceptive knowledge. The term gained prominence in the 20th century, particularly in contexts of propaganda and media manipulation.
Examples

  1. The article was flagged for spreading misinformation about vaccine safety.

  2. Social media platforms struggle to combat misinformation during elections.

  3. She shared the post without realizing it contained misinformation.

  4. Fact-checkers work tirelessly to correct misinformation online.

  5. The government issued a warning about misinformation campaigns targeting public health.