back formation

noun

, Linguistics.

1. the analogical creation of one word from another word that appears to be a derived or inflected form of the first by dropping the apparent affix or by modification.
2. a word so formed, as typewrite from typewriter.

back formation

noun

1. the invention of a new word on the assumption that a familiar word is derived from it. The verbs edit and burgle were so created from editor and burglar
2. a word formed by this process

Word History and Origins

Origin of back formation¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

In any event, the men should be taught to take some form of a closed back-to-back formation.

From Project Gutenberg

In any event, the men should be taught to take some form of a closed back to back formation.

From Project Gutenberg