word
catachresis
kat-uh-KREE-sis
ˌkætəˈkriːsɪsListen
Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.
Syllable breakdown
catachresis
Sounds like
Say 'kat-uh-KREE-sis'.
Dictionary meaning
The incorrect use of a word; also the use of a strained metaphor.
History and origin
Greek — 'katakhresis' (misuse).
Examples
- 'It's a slippery slope' is now so common it is no longer felt as catachresis, just idiom.
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