Dogberryism

/ˈdɔɡˌbɛriˌɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A foolish or confused statement, especially a malapropism or absurd use of words by someone in a position of authority; the characteristic speech or behavior of Constable Dogberry.

Etymology

From Constable Dogberry (Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing') plus '-ism' (meaning practice or system). Dogberry's defining trait was mangling language comically while maintaining pompous authority.

Kelly Says

When characters like Dogberry use the wrong word but sound confident about it, they're committing 'dogberryism'—and we see it constantly in real life with politicians and officials who sound authoritative while saying nothing sensible.

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