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Added 9 October 2026

mishandle

/mɪsˈhændəl/ verb

verb Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about mishandle at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

To manipulate something roughly, causing physical damage.
If you mishandle a fragile package, the contents may break.
To deal with a situation incorrectly or ineffectively; to make a mistake in handling a situation.
The prime minister was accused of mishandling the diplomatic crisis.

noun

Rough manipulation which causes physical damage.
Ineffective or incorrect deal.
Improper, wrong, or bad usage or treatment; abuse.

Origin

From Middle English mishandlen, equivalent to mis- + handle. Cognate with Saterland Frisian mishondelje, West Frisian mishandelje, Dutch mishandelen (“to mistreat”), German misshandeln (“to mistreat”).

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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