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back formation

noun

, Linguistics.
  1. the analogical creation of one word from another word that appears to be a derived or inflected form of the first by dropping the apparent affix or by modification.
  2. a word so formed, as typewrite from typewriter.


back formation

noun

  1. the invention of a new word on the assumption that a familiar word is derived from it. The verbs edit and burgle were so created from editor and burglar
  2. a word formed by this process
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of back formation1

First recorded in 1885–90
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Example Sentences

In any event, the men should be taught to take some form of a closed back-to-back formation.

In any event, the men should be taught to take some form of a closed back to back formation.

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