PARONOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Paronomy is a linguistic term that refers to a specific type of wordplay or rhetorical device characterized by the intentional substitution or alteration of similar-sounding words to create a witty or clever effect. It involves the use of words that are phonetically or semantically related, but not identical, to create a play on words or humorous effect.
In paronomy, words that sound similar or share some phonetic similarity are used interchangeably to provoke a humorous or thought-provoking response. The play on words often relies on the listener or reader recognizing the similarity between the substituted words. This can involve substituting a homonym or using a word that sounds like the intended word but has a different meaning.
Paronomy can be employed in various forms, such as puns, spoonerisms, or other wordplay techniques. It adds an element of cleverness, humor, or ambiguity to the language, engaging the listeners or readers and stimulating their creative thinking.
Paronomy is commonly used in literature, poetry, advertising, comedy, or any context where the intention is to evoke a playful or humorous effect through wordplay. It requires a certain level of linguistic awareness and familiarity with the language to fully appreciate and understand the intended meaning or humor behind the words. Paronomy is an effective tool to convey multiple meanings simultaneously and create a memorable, witty impact on the audience.
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The quality of being paronymous.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PARONOMY
- oaronomy
- laronomy
- 0aronomy
- pzronomy
- psronomy
- pwronomy
- pqronomy
- paeonomy
- padonomy
- pafonomy
- patonomy
- pa5onomy
- pa4onomy
- parinomy
- parknomy
- parlnomy
- parpnomy
- par0nomy
- par9nomy
- parobomy
Etymology of PARONOMY
The word "paronomy" is derived from the Greek word "paronomia" (παρωνυμία), which is formed by combining "para" (παρά) meaning "beside" or "parallel to", and "onoma" (ὄνομα) meaning "name" or "word". Therefore, the term "paronomy" refers to a rhetorical figure where words or phrases with similar sounds or spellings are used, often for poetic or rhetorical effect.
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