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barbarism definition

bar·ba·rism (bär′bə riz′əm)

noun

    1. the use of words and expressions not standard in a language
    2. a word or expression of this sort (Ex.: “youse” for “you”)
  2. the state of being primitive or lacking civilization
  3. a barbarous action, custom, etc.
  4. brutal behavior; barbarity

Etymology: L barbarismus < Gr barbarismos: see barbarous

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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