retronym

[ re-truh-nim ]

/ ˈrɛ trə nɪm /

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noun

a term coined in modification of an original term that was used alone (as acoustic guitar instead of guitar) to distinguish it from a term referring to a later development (as electric guitar). Other examples of retronyms are snail mail and analog watch.

QUIZ

CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?

There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?

Question 1 of 7

Which sentence is correct?

His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

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Origin of retronym

1980, Americanism;retro- + (-o)nym; coined by Frank Mankiewicz, U.S. journalist

Words nearby retronym

retroject, retrolental, retrolental fibroplasia, retrolingual, retromingent, retronym, retro-operative, retropack, retropulsion, retroreflective, retroreflector