back-formation
back-for·ma·tion [ ˈbak-fȯr-ˈmā-shən]
[ˈbak-fȯr-ˈmā-shən]
1 : a word formed by subtraction of a real or supposed affix from an already existing longer word (such as burgle from burglar)
2 : the formation of back-formations
First Known Use of back-formation
1888, in the meaning defined at sense 2
Dictionary Entries near back-formation