malaprop

[ mal-uh-prop ]

noun

malapropism (def. 2).

Origin of malaprop

¹

First recorded in 1815–25; see origin at Malaprop

Other words from malaprop

out·mal·a·prop, verb (used with object), out·mal·a·propped, out·mal·a·prop·ping.

Words Nearby malaprop

Other definitions for Malaprop (2 of 2)

Malaprop

[ mal-uh-prop ]

noun

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

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use malaprop in a sentence

Have you heard the speculation, The rumor now in circulation: Perry runs with Newt this Fall malaprop meets know-it-all.
The Song of Newt Gingrich: From Longshot To Hotshot To No Shot | | April 26, 2012 | THE DAILY BEAST
"A regular Mrs. malaprop," Jack said, while Howard suggested that they leave before she came home.
The Cromptons | Mary J. Holmes
A total want of ordinary thought and observation, is the general cause of the malaprop failing.
Martine's Hand-book of Etiquette, and Guide to True Politeness | Arthur Martine
Mrs. malaprop argues that married men ought to give up their clubs, 'because Hercules gave up his when he got spliced!'
The Knickerbocker, Vol. 22, No. 3, September 1843 | Various
There was certainly nothing of the Cherry and Honeycomb about her when older; but she was an admirable Mrs. malaprop.
The Town | Leigh Hunt

She was the ideal Mrs. malaprop, and she surpassed all competitors in the character of Mrs. Hardcastle.
Shadows of the Stage | William Winter

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