Definition

Describing a mistake in which a word is used incorrectly in place of a similar-sounding word, often with humorous effect.

Example

His malaprop remarks during the meeting made everyone laugh.

Conversation

Did you hear her speech? It was full of malaprop moments.

Yeah, I noticed that too! It made me laugh.

I wonder if she even realizes how many she used.

I doubt it, but it definitely added some humor to the event.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A mistake made when a person uses a word that sounds similar to the correct word but means something different, often causing a humorous effect.

Example

His use of the word 'pineapple' instead of 'pinnacle' was a classic malaprop.

Conversation

Did you hear her use a malaprop during the meeting yesterday?

Yeah, it was hilarious! She said 'the law is a ass' instead of 'the law is an ass.'

Right? It made the whole room laugh.

Root Explanation

Malaprop is derived from the French phrase 'mal à propos' (meaning badly or poorly suited). The term refers to the humorous misuse of a word by confusing it with a similar-sounding one, resulting in an absurd or nonsensical expression.

Memory Tip

Think of the French phrase 'mal à propos' which means 'badly suited' — this helps you remember that a malaprop is a word used incorrectly, leading to a humorous effect.

Visually Confused Words