First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
mischance
noun mis·chance \ˌmis-ˈchan(t)s\
: bad luck
: something caused by bad luck
Full Definition of MISCHANCE
1
: bad luck
2
: a piece of bad luck : mishap
See mischance defined for English-language learners
See mischance defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of MISCHANCE
Middle English mischaunce, from Anglo-French meschance, from mes- mis- + chance chance
Synonym Discussion of MISCHANCE
misfortune, mischance, adversity, mishap mean adverse fortune or an instance of this. misfortune may apply to either the incident or conjunction of events that is the cause of an unhappy change of fortune or to the ensuing state of distress <never lost hope even in the depths of misfortune>. mischance applies especially to a situation involving no more than slight inconvenience or minor annoyance <took the wrong road by mischance>. adversity applies to a state of grave or persistent misfortune <had never experienced great adversity>. mishap applies to an often trivial instance of bad luck <the usual mishaps of a family vacation>.
Rhymes with MISCHANCE
Learn More About MISCHANCE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: mischiefPrevious Word in the Dictionary: miscellanyAll Words Near: mischance
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up mischance? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).