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back-formation

Noun CEFR C2

Definitions

  1. The process by which a new word is formed from an older word by interpreting the former as a derivative of the latter, often by removing a morpheme (real or perceived) from the older word, such as the verb burgle, formed by removing -ar (perceived as an agent-noun suffix) from burglar.
    uncountable
  2. A word created in this way.
    countable

Equivalents

11 more languages

Examples

“Back-formations, such as "tambour" (for "play⟳ the tambourine"), are a staple of comedic wordplay.”

CEFR level

C2
Mastery
This word is part of the CEFR C2 vocabulary — mastery level.
See all C2 English words →

See also

back-friend back-ganging back-handed compliment back-hander back-heel back-of-the-envelope

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