What Is a Contronym?
When you look up the definition of a word, you expect a clear answer. However, many English words will list multiple definitions, based on different usages. Occasionally, two definitions conflict with each other. When a word develops in multiple directions and ends up with contradicting definitions, it’s called a contronym.
There are many words with multiple definitions, but to be a contronym, the usages must conflict. Consider the verb “dust.” It can mean “to make free of dust” and “to sprinkle with fine particles.” After you carefully dust the living room, your child may accidentally dust the carpet with food...
