Definition

The use of a specific name or title to represent a general class or group, such as calling a traitor a 'Benedict Arnold' or referring to a king as 'Your Majesty.'

Example

In literature, authors often use antonomasia to create memorable characters by substituting a common trait for a proper name.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term antonomasia?

Yeah, it's when you use a name to represent a whole group, right?

Exactly! Like calling someone a real 'Einstein' for being smart.

Right! It's such a clever way to express things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antonomasia is formed from "anti-" (meaning against or opposite) and "onoma" (meaning name). The term refers to the use of a proper name to express a general idea or the substitution of a descriptive phrase for a proper name, often to emphasize a characteristic.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against and 'onoma' meaning name — this helps you remember that antonomasia involves using a name in a way that opposes its usual meaning.

Visually Confused Words