malaprop

¹

[ mal-uh-prop ]

noun

1. malapropism ( def 2 ).

Malaprop

²

[ mal-uh-prop ]

noun

1. Mrs., a character in Sheridan's The Rivals (1775), noted for her misapplication of words.

Other Words From

• outmala·prop verb (used with object) outmalapropped outmalapropping

Word History and Origins

Origin of malaprop¹

First recorded in 1815–25; Malaprop

Example Sentences

Have you heard the speculation, The rumor now in circulation: Perry runs with Newt this Fall Malaprop meets know-it-all.

From The Daily Beast

"A regular Mrs. Malaprop," Jack said, while Howard suggested that they leave before she came home.

From Project Gutenberg

A total want of ordinary thought and observation, is the general cause of the Malaprop failing.

From Project Gutenberg

Mrs. Malaprop argues that married men ought to give up their clubs, 'because Hercules gave up his when he got spliced!'

From Project Gutenberg

There was certainly nothing of the Cherry and Honeycomb about her when older; but she was an admirable Mrs. Malaprop.

From Project Gutenberg

She was the ideal Mrs. Malaprop, and she surpassed all competitors in the character of Mrs. Hardcastle.

From Project Gutenberg