1. the mistaken use of a word in place of a similar-sounding one, often with unintentionally amusing effect
Usage: literary term; named after Mrs. Malaprop from Sheridan’s play

Examples

• His speech was full of malaprops that made the audience chuckle.
• She committed a malaprop when she said ‘epitome of perfection’ instead of ‘epitome of imperfection.’
• The character’s frequent malaprops provided comic relief in the play.
• His malaprop about ‘dancing a flamingo’ instead of ‘flamenco’ was hilarious.
• The politician’s malaprop during the debate became a viral meme.
• Teachers often collect student malaprops as examples of language development.