misalignment

noun

mis·​align·​ment ˌmis-ə-ˈlīn-mənt 

plural misalignments

: the condition of being out of correct position or improperly adjusted : bad or incorrect alignment

Over time, because of damage and wear, typewriters develop faults and misalignments that render their typescript unique.

—Laney Salisbury et al.

… overuse injuries are all too often the consequence of poor technique or misalignment of body parts.

—Jane E. Brody

Examples of misalignment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There is a slight misalignment of the drawers, not noticeable with a mattress and bedding. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 13 Mar. 2025

These misalignments are a pattern in the U.S.’s reaction to infectious disease. —Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 7 Mar. 2025

The change could create complications for families traveling together, as any misalignment between eligibility for primary applicants and dependents could result in delays. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 20 Feb. 2025

This misalignment impairs your sleep and concentration, and can leave you feeling irritable. —Mackenzie Gamble, The Conversation, 10 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for misalignment

• nonalignment
• realignment
• reassignment
• reconsignment
• alignment
• alinement
• assignment
• confinement
• consignment
• refinement