agnomination

noun

ag·​nom·​i·​na·​tion
(ˌ)ag-ˌnä-mə-ˈnā-shən
plural -s
1
: the echoing of a sound of one word in another in close relationship with it (as in the same sentence)
2
: the repetition of a word but in different senses often for purpose of wit (as in punning) or for emphatic contrast

Word History

Etymology

Latin agnomination-, agnominatio, from ad- + nomination-, nominatio naming; translation of Greek paronomasia

First Known Use

1574, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of agnomination was in 1574

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near agnomination

Cite this Entry

“Agnomination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/agnomination. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!