malapropism Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the unintentional misuse of a word by confusion with one that sounds similar
    malaprop.

WordNet

Mal"a*prop*ism noun
Etymology
From Mrs. Malaprop, a character in Sheridan's drama, " The Rivals," who makes amusing blunders in her use of words. See Malapropos.
Definitions
  1. A grotesque misuse of a word; a word so used.

Webster 1913