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Definitions from the Web

Lockantonym

Definition:

A lockantonym refers to a word that has contradictory meanings, specifically when the word itself is its own antonym.

Senses:

1. Popular Sense: In popular usage, a lockantonym is a word that can have two opposite meanings, causing confusion or ambiguity.
2. Local Sense: In local communities or linguistic circles, a lockantonym is also known as a "contronym" or "auto-antonym".

Usage:

Sense 1: In everyday conversations, lockantonyms are often used to create humorous wordplay or confusing situations. For example:

"Custom" is a lockantonym as it can mean both "unique and personalized" and "according to common practice or standards".

"Dust" is another lockantonym; it can mean both "to remove debris" and "to add a thin layer of fine particles."

Sense 2: In linguistic analysis, lockantonyms or contronyms are studied to explore the complexity and versatility of language. For example:

The word "cleave" is a lockantonym as it can mean both "to cling or adhere" and "to split or separate".

"Fast" is another lockantonym; it can mean both "quick or speedy" and "immovable or firmly fixed".

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