Miss

Definition

Miss is a word with multiple meanings and uses. As a verb, it refers to failing to hit, reach, or catch something, or feeling the absence of someone or something. As a noun, it can denote a failure to achieve or a title used to address an unmarried woman or girl.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mɪs/
• Respelling: MISS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mɪs/
• Respelling: MISS

Etymology

The word "miss" originates from the Old English "missan," meaning "to fail to hit, reach, or find." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*missjan," with roots in the idea of failing or going astray. The noun form and its use as a title appeared later, influenced by French and Latin.

Derivatives

• Misstep (noun)
• Missed (verb, past tense)
• Missing (adjective)
• Missable (adjective)
• Missive (noun, indirectly related)

Synonyms

• Fail
• Avoid
• Omit

Antonyms

• Hit
• Achieve
• Attend

Usage

The term "miss" is used in various contexts. For example, "He missed the target" refers to failing to hit, while "I miss my friends" expresses a sense of longing. As a title, "Miss" is used formally to address or refer to an unmarried woman, e.g., "Miss Johnson will attend the meeting."

Related Terms

• Loss: The state of being deprived of something.
• Absence: The state of being away or not present.
• Omission: The act of leaving something out.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To fail to hit, reach, or catch something: Refers to an unsuccessful attempt.
  • Example: "He missed the bus by a minute."
• To feel the absence of someone or something: Refers to longing or yearning.
  • Example: "I miss you when you're away."

Noun

• A failure to hit, reach, or achieve something: Refers to an unsuccessful outcome.
  • Example: "His shot was a miss."
• A title used to address an unmarried woman: A formal or respectful way of addressing a woman.
  • Example: "Please welcome Miss Smith."