DOUBLE ENTENDRE Meaning and
Definition
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A double entendre is a literary or rhetorical device that contains multiple layers of meaning, often conveying two different interpretations. It is derived from the French language, meaning "double understanding." This figure of speech is characterized by deliberately using ambiguous or suggestive language, leading to a humorous or witty effect.
The double entendre is often employed in various forms of creative expression, such as literature, drama, poetry, music, or comedy. It serves to entertain and engage the audience by tickling their intellect or sense of humor. The dual meaning can be either innocent or risqué, catering to different levels of interpretation depending on the context or audience.
In some cases, double entendres involve wordplay, puns, or cleverly veiled sexual innuendo, creating a humorous effect while also allowing for a deeper understanding or appreciation. They can add layers of complexity, irony, or wit to the message being conveyed, encouraging the audience to look beyond the surface level of the words and consider alternative meanings.
Proponents of the double entendre argue that it enhances creative expression by promoting critical thinking, engaging the audience's imagination, and encouraging them to actively interpret and decode the intended messages. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of a double entendre heavily relies on context and the audience's interpretation, and thus, it requires a certain level of discernment to fully appreciate the intended playfulness or deeper meaning behind the words.
Common Misspellings for DOUBLE ENTENDRE
- souble entendre
- xouble entendre
- couble entendre
- fouble entendre
- rouble entendre
- eouble entendre
- diuble entendre
- dkuble entendre
- dluble entendre
- dpuble entendre
- d0uble entendre
- d9uble entendre
- doyble entendre
- dohble entendre
- dojble entendre
- doible entendre
- do8ble entendre
- do7ble entendre
- douvle entendre
- dounle entendre
- doublentendre
- doubelentendre
- doubleantendre
Etymology of DOUBLE ENTENDRE
The word "double entendre" comes from French, where "double" means "twofold" or "double" and "entendre" means "to understand" or "to hear". In its literal sense, "double entendre" translates to "double meaning". The term was first introduced in English in the 17th century as a direct borrowing from French and has been used ever since to refer to a phrase or expression that has two interpretations, often one innocent and one with risqué or suggestive undertones.
Idioms with the word DOUBLE ENTENDRE
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a double entendre
A double entendre is a figure of speech or phrase that has two meanings, one usually being innocent or straightforward while the other is often risqué, suggestive, or has a sexual connotation. It is a form of wordplay that relies on the ambiguity of language to create humor or intrigue.
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double entendre
A double entendre is a word or phrase that has two interpretations, one of which is usually humorous, risqué, or sexually suggestive.
Similar spelling words for DOUBLE ENTENDRE
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