Spoonerism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A spoonerism is a verbal error where the initial sounds of words are swapped, often creating humorous or nonsensical phrases, such as saying belly jeans instead of jelly beans.
Definition:
A verbal error where initial sounds of words are swapped, often humorously.
Synonyms:
slip of the tongue, verbal error, speech error
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
accuracy, correctness
Common Collocations:
commit a spoonerism, unintentional spoonerism, humorous spoonerism
Derivatives:
spooneristic, spoonerize
Usage Tips:
Use it to describe accidental or intentional sound swaps in speech for humorous effect.
Common Phrases:
"a well-packed bike" (instead of "a well-packed bike"), "tease my ears" (instead of "ease my tears")
Etymology:
Named after Rev. William Spooner, known for such slips.
Examples:
- 1. The professor made a spoonerism and said "belly jeans" instead of "jelly beans."
- 2. Her spoonerism turned "smart fella" into "fart smella," making everyone laugh.
- 3. He often unintentionally creates spoonerisms when speaking quickly.
- 4. The comedian’s act included clever spoonerisms to entertain the audience.