accismus

[ uhk-siz-muhs ]

noun
  1. an ironic rhetorical device, in which one feigns indifference, or makes a pretense of refusing something one desires:Clarence’s simpering that he couldn’t possibly accept such a generous gift is an example of accismus, for he has repeatedly shown the audience his weakness for luxury.

Origin of accismus

1
First recorded in 1560–70; from New Latin accismus “coyness, pretense of indifference,” from Greek akkismós

Words Nearby accismus

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024