malaphor

Definitions

An idiom blend: an error in which two similar figures of speech are merged, producing an often nonsensical result.

rare

Examples

“What I conclude⟳ from this admittedly narrow data base⟳ is that, while the malaphor flourishes in bureaucratic compost, it will grow⟳ just about anywhere. The following malaphors are my pick⟳ of the letters. They were uttered in the home, on the farm, in the street.”

“Among Swift's favorite malaphors are "He's a ragged individualist"; "I was up at the crank of dawn"; and "He's a fly⟳ in the oatmeal."”

CEFR level