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malapropism

mal·a·prop·ism [ mállə pro pìzzəm ] (plural mal·a·prop·isms)


noun 
Definition:
 
1. unintentional use of wrong word: the misuse of a word through confusion with another word that sounds similar, especially when the effect is ridiculous

2. example of malapropism: an instance of using malapropism

[Early 19th century. After Mrs. Malaprop (<malapropos), character in Richard Sheridan's play The Rivals]

mal·a·prop·ist [ mállə pròppist ] noun
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