Meaning & use
malapropism
The mistaken use of a word in place of a similar-sounding one, often with an unintentionally funny result.
See it in a sentence
His malapropism, calling the event a 'catastrophe' when he meant 'catalyst,' made everyone laugh.
The comedian's character is famous for malapropisms like 'a wolf in cheap clothing.'
A note on using this word
The term comes from Mrs. Malaprop, a character in Sheridan's play 'The Rivals' known for such verbal mix-ups.
Words with a similar meaning
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