Simple Definition of malapropism

from our Learner's Dictionary

malapropism

noun

ˈmæləˌprɑːpˌɪzəm How to pronounce malapropism (audio)
plural malapropisms
: an amusing error that occurs when a person mistakenly uses a word that sounds like another word but that has a very different meaning

Cite this Entry

“Malapropism.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/malapropism. Accessed 6 May. 2026.

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