This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
eggcorn
[ eg-kawrn ]
/ ˈɛgˌkɔrn /
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This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
a word or phrase that is a seemingly logical alteration of another word or phrase that sounds similar and has been misheard or misinterpreted, as 'old wise tale' for 'old wives' tale'.
QUIZ
THINGAMABOB OR THINGUMMY: CAN YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE US AND UK TERMS IN THIS QUIZ?
Do you know the difference between everyday US and UK terminology? Test yourself with this quiz on words that differ across the Atlantic.
Question 1 of 7
In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…
Compare mondegreen. See also malapropism.
Origin of eggcorn
With reference to a mishearing or misinterpretation of the word acorn
Words nearby eggcorn
egg-binding, egg-bound, egg case, egg cell, egg coal, eggcorn, eggcrate, egg cream, eggcup, eggdrop soup, egger
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023