macaronism

[mak-uh-roh-niz-uhm]

macaronism Definition

the use of excessive and ornate words or language, especially in an attempt to impress others.

Using macaronism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "macaronism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    His writing was filled with macaronism, making it difficult to understand.

  • Example

    The politician's speech was full of macaronism, but lacked substance.

  • Example

    She was criticized for her macaronistic style of writing.

macaronism Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for macaronism

Phrases with macaronism

  • a mixture of two or more languages in a single text or speech

    Example

    The poem was written in a macaronic language, combining Latin and English.

  • a type of poetry that combines two or more languages in a single verse

    Example

    The poet wrote macaronic verse, blending Italian and Latin in his work.

  • a hymn that combines two or more languages in its lyrics

    Example

    The choir sang a macaronic hymn, mixing Latin and English in the lyrics.

Origins of macaronism

from French 'macaron', meaning 'a small cake', used to describe the affectation of the French language by non-native speakers

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Summary: macaronism in Brief

The term 'macaronism' [mak-uh-roh-niz-uhm] refers to the use of excessive and ornate language, often in an attempt to impress others. It is characterized by grandiloquence and verbosity, as seen in examples like 'His writing was filled with macaronism, making it difficult to understand.' The term extends into phrases like 'macaronic language,' which describes a mixture of two or more languages in a single text or speech.