It was introduced into the English language from a character in a play from the 18th century. It was, however, derived from a French term. It has a similar meaning to a word attributed to a certain 19th century clergyman and his worms, although slightly differing concept. What is the word, what was the name of the play and can you give a few examples of what this word describes?

gmackematix

Malapropism and Sheridan's "The Rivals" are two of the solutes you inquired after at this junction. Aug 16 05, 8:28 PM

gmackematix

As for the provider of clerical errors you eluded to, he went to school in Oswestry ten miles from where I live. According to Wiki, though, Shakespeare's Dogberry was there first: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malapropism I can think of at least two British soap characters (Ethel Skinner of "Eastenders" and Hilda Ogden of "Coronation Street") who have continued the traditions of Mrs Malaprop. Aug 16 05, 8:34 PM

lanfranco

You mean the man who made the immortal remark, "You have tasted two worms and you will leave Oxford by the next town drain"? Aug 16 05, 9:39 PM

lanfranco

I should have added that you were also referring to "spoonerisms," named after the cleric William Spooner. http://www.answers.com/topic/spoonerism My favorite Mrs. Malapropism is: "Why, murder's the matter! Slaughter's the matter! Killing's the matter! -- but he can tell you the perpendiculars." Aug 16 05, 10:11 PM

peasypod

Well yes, gmack, Nice One. You too Frankie for the Spoonerisms. Can either of you give an example of aural type, a Mondegreen? Aug 16 05, 11:56 PM

lanfranco

Children's mondegreens are the most fun. I rather like "The piece of cod which passeth all understanding." That and several more are given on this site: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mondegreen Aug 17 05, 7:16 AM

gmackematix

I see, like the prayer a certain child heard at a funeral: "To the father to the son and into the hole he goes". Aug 17 05, 8:45 PM

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