[ noun ] an incorrect or unsuitable name <noun.communication>
Misnomer \Mis*no"mer\, n. [OF. pref. mes- amiss, wrong (L. minus less) + F. nommer to name, L. nominare, fr. nomen name. See {Name}.] The misnaming of a person in a legal instrument, as in a complaint or indictment; any misnaming of a person or thing; a wrong or inapplicable name or title.
Many of the changes, by a great misnomer, called parliamentary ``reforms''. --Burke.
The word ``synonym'' is fact a misnomer. --Whately.
Misnomer \Mis*no"mer\, v. t. To misname. [R.]
Industry executives, however, note that "price increase" remains somewhat of a misnomer in the oil region these days.
To call them refugees would be a misnomer, for most will never be able to return to their homes.
"That is a misnomer.
"To call any other car popemobile would be a misnomer," Ms. Marshall says.
Instead, it is a global multibillion-dollar business which provides the oil for the world's investment machinery and the glue which holds the system together. Indeed, custodians say, their sector is saddled with a misnomer.