Anthimeria: Definition and Examples

Anthimeria, derived from the Greek word "anti-meros," meaning "one part for another," is a rhetorical device characterized by the substitution of one part of speech with another, often transforming a noun into a verb or vice versa. This linguistic phenomenon enriches language by adapting words to new grammatical forms and expressions. Types of Anthimeria Anthimeria comes in two main types: Temporary Anthimeria: These are trendy usages that may not become permanent fixtures in the language. For example, "hashtagging" is a temporary anthimeria that has emerged recently. Permanent Anthimeria: This type becomes a lasting part of the language. Words like "texting" and "typing" have permanently adopted new grammatical shapes. Examples of Anthimeria in Literature Example #1: Under the Greenwood Tree (by Thomas Hardy) “The parishioners about here,” continued Mrs. Day, not looking at any living being, but snatching up the brown delf tea-things, “ar…