Definition of catachresis

Email this page to a friend

< catabolize

cataclysm >

cat·a·chre·sis    (kt-krss) KEY 

NOUN:
pl. cat·a·chre·ses  (-sz) KEY 

1. The misapplication of a word or phrase, as the use of blatant to mean "flagrant."
2. The use of a strained figure of speech, such as a mixed metaphor.

---

ETYMOLOGY:
Latin catachrsis, improper use of a word, from Greek katakhrsis, excessive use, from katakhrsthai, to misuse : kata-, completely ; see cata- + khrsthai, to use; see gher-² in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
cata·chrestic  (-krstk) KEY  or cata·chresti·cal  (-t-kl) KEY (Adjective), cata·chresti·cal·ly(Adverb)