mishap

IPA

Dictionary definition of mishap

An unfortunate, often unexpected, and minor accident, mistake, or misfortune that occurs due to a momentary lapse in judgment, a lack of caution, or unforeseen circumstances.
"The actor's mishap during the play caused an unexpected pause in the performance."

Detailed meaning of mishap

It typically involves a small-scale incident or error that results in unintended consequences, inconvenience, or a brief disruption. Mishaps can happen in various contexts, such as everyday life, work, travel, or recreational activities. They are often considered to be minor incidents or accidents that do not cause significant harm or have long-lasting effects. Mishaps can range from simple mishandling of objects to small accidents or inconveniences, such as spilling a drink, tripping over a curb, or misplacing a set of keys. While mishaps may be inconvenient or momentarily frustrating, they are generally viewed as minor setbacks that can be resolved or overcome relatively easily.

Example sentences containing mishap

1. The chef's mishap in the kitchen resulted in a burnt dish.
2. Her mishap with the computer led to the loss of important files.
3. The hiker's mishap on the trail resulted in a sprained ankle.
4. The construction worker's mishap caused a temporary halt in the project.
5. The driver's mishap with the car led to a minor fender bender.
6. The magician's mishap during the performance left the audience in laughter.

History and etymology of mishap

The term 'mishap' has its roots in Middle English and can be traced back to the 14th century. It originates from the combination of two Old English words: 'mis,' meaning 'bad' or 'wrong,' and 'heap,' which referred to a pile or collection of things. Over time, the word 'mishap' evolved to describe an unfortunate event or occurrence that deviates from the expected course of events, often due to a momentary lapse in judgment, a lack of caution, or unforeseen circumstances. Its etymology highlights the notion of things going awry or ending up in a disordered or undesirable state, making it a fitting term to describe minor accidents, mistakes, or misfortunes.

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Further usage examples of mishap

1. The traveler's mishap with the airline caused a delay in their flight.
2. The student's mishap with the experiment resulted in a small explosion.
3. The babysitter's mishap with the toddler's toy caused it to break.
4. The cyclist's mishap on the road resulted in a scraped knee.
5. The photographer's mishap with the camera led to blurry pictures.
6. The mishap with the coffee spill ruined my morning commute.
7. A mishap at the bakery resulted in burnt pastries.
8. Her mishap with the phone charger left it unusable.
9. The camping trip was marred by a mishap with the tent.
10. A mishap with the GPS caused us to get lost.
11. The mishap during the experiment led to unexpected results.
12. The wedding cake mishap made for a memorable reception.
13. His mishap with the paint can left a mess in the living room.
14. The mishap with the car tire delayed our road trip.
15. A mishap with the microphone disrupted the conference.
16. The mishap on the hiking trail required a rescue team.
17. Their mishap with the costumes added humor to the play.
18. A mishap at the airport caused a flight delay.
19. The mishap with the recipe resulted in a ruined dinner.
20. His mishap while biking led to a minor injury.
21. The plumbing mishap flooded the basement.
22. A mishap with the umbrella left me soaked in the rain.
23. The mishap with the computer deleted important files.
24. Her mishap with the backpack made her miss the bus.
25. A mishap on the ski slope resulted in a tumble.