backhanded etymology

Meaning:

A backhanded etymology is a false or misleading explanation of the origin of a word. It often twists or distorts the actual etymology to create a humorous or satirical interpretation.

Origin:

The term "backhanded etymology" was coined by American linguist and author Steven Pinker in his 1995 book "The Language Instinct." Pinker attributed the origin of the practice to Mark Twain, who used backhanded etymologies in his satirical writings.

Examples:

• "Kindergarten" is derived from "kinder" (children) and "garten" (garden), but a backhanded etymology might claim it comes from "kinder" (more gentle) and "garten" (place of torture).
• "Serendipity" is derived from a Persian fairy tale "The Three Princes of Serendip," but a backhanded etymology might suggest it comes from "se" (six) and "rendip" (vomit).
• "Prestidigitation" is derived from Latin "praesto" (ready) and "digitus" (finger), but a backhanded etymology might claim it comes from "presto" (fast) and "digit" (scam).

Characteristics:

Backhanded etymologies typically share the following characteristics:

• They are invented, not based on actual linguistic evidence.
• They are often humorous or satirical in tone.
• They twist or distort the actual etymology in a way that creates a comedic or ironic effect.
• They may be used to poke fun at or challenge established etymologies.

Purpose:

Backhanded etymologies can serve various purposes:

• Humor: They can provide a humorous way to explore the origins of words.
• Education: They can challenge traditional etymologies and encourage critical thinking about language.
• Satire: They can be used to criticize or mock established linguistic practices.

backhanded relate terms

• backhand

  Etymology The word backhand is derived from two Old English words bæc meaning ba

• back

  Etymology The word back is derived from the Old English word bæc which meant back

• hand

  Etymology The word hand comes from the Old English word hand which is itself derive

• backhanded

  Meaning A backhanded etymology is a false or misleading explanation of the origin of a w

• sacrament

  Etymology The word sacrament is derived from the Latin word sacramentum which origin

• Christ

  Etymology The name Christ comes from the Greek word Χριστός Christós which i

• resolution

  Etymology Latin resolutio Root re again back solvere to loosen release Mea

• bolster

  Etymology The word bolster comes from the Old English word bolster which is derived

• colonel

  Etymology of Colonel The word colonel comes ultimately from the Latin term columna

• alone

  Etymology Old English ānlīen solitary Proto West Germanic ainli solitary Pro

• press

  Etymology The word press originates from the Old French word presse which in turn c

• austere

  Etymology Late Latin austērus harsh severe Greek austēros dry harsh Proto I