Catachrestic — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun adjective /ˌka-tə-ˈkrē-səs/ cat·a·chre·sis

Meaning & Definition of Catachrestic

Catachrestic (noun)

  1. use of the wrong word for the context
  2. use of a forced and especially paradoxical figure of speech (such as blind mouths)

Catachrestic (adjective) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. as in sylleptic

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Catachrestic

The most common words with a similar meaning to Catachrestic:

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Catachrestic

Words with the opposite meaning of Catachrestic:

Word Forms of Catachrestic

Inflections: catachreses

Derived words: catachrestic (adjective), catachrestically (adverb)

Origin & Etymology of Catachrestic

Latin, from Greek katachrēsis misuse, from katachrēsthai to use up, misuse, from kata- + chrēsthai to use

First known use: 1550

Frequently Asked Questions about Catachrestic

What does "Catachrestic" mean?

"Catachrestic" means use of the wrong word for the context. As an a noun and an adjective, it is defined as: use of the wrong word for the context.

What is another word for "Catachrestic"?

Other words for "Catachrestic" include sylleptic, Aesopian, allegorical, emblematic, symbolic, euphemistic, extended and figural. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Catachrestic" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Catachrestic"?

There are 14 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Catachrestic". Common alternatives include sylleptic, Aesopian, allegorical, emblematic, symbolic, euphemistic, extended, figural, figurative and metaphoric.

What is the opposite of "Catachrestic"?

Antonyms of "Catachrestic" include nonfigurative, nonmetaphorical, literal and nonsymbolic.

Is "Catachrestic" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Catachrestic" can be used as a noun and an adjective, depending on the context.

How do you pronounce "Catachrestic"?

"Catachrestic" is pronounced /ˌka-tə-ˈkrē-səs/ and divided into syllables as cat·a·chre·sis.

What is the origin of the word "Catachrestic"?

"Catachrestic" comes from Latin, from Greek katachrēsis misuse, from katachrēsthai to use up, misuse, from kata- + chrēsthai to use. First known use: 1550.

What is another word for "Catachrestic" meaning "as in sylleptic"?

When "Catachrestic" (adjective) means as in sylleptic, synonyms include sylleptic, Aesopian, allegorical, emblematic, symbolic and euphemistic. Opposites in this sense include nonfigurative, nonmetaphorical, literal and nonsymbolic.