Definition

A form of word play that uses similar-sounding words or phrases to create a humorous or rhetorical effect.

Example

The comedian's use of paronomasia made the audience laugh with clever puns.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of paronomasia?

Yeah, that's just a fancy word for puns, right?

Exactly! I love how clever wordplay can be.

Same here! It really adds a fun twist to conversations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Paronomasia → It is formed from "para-" (meaning beside or alongside) and "onomasia" (from Greek "onoma", meaning name). The word refers to a play on words that involves similar-sounding words or names, often for humorous or rhetorical effect.

Memory Tip

Think of words that are 'beside' each other in sound ('para-') but differ in meaning ('onoma'). This helps you remember that paronomasia is a clever play on words.

Visually Confused Words