Backronym
A backronym is an acronym that matches an existing word, often a word interpreted as an acronym that was not originally so intended. This is a special case of what linguists call back-formation. Backronyms give the impression that the acronym was contrived to fit the word, whether the fit is deliberate or accidental.For example, BASIC is apparently a "basic" programming language, and it stands for "Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code".
"Backronym" is a portmanteau of back + acronym. Discovering backronyms is a common form of wordplay among hackers.
Some examples of backronymns include:
- MAD Mutually Assured Destruction, reflecting the Cold War notion that to initiate a nuclear attack would be, indeed, mad, because to do so would assure ones one destruction in a counterattack.
- MADD - Mothers Against Drunk Driving, an organization whose members are presumably upset about intoxicated individuals on the roads.
- USA PATRIOT Act - Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, an item of counter-terrorism] legislation passed by the U.S. Congress following the September 11 terrorist attacks. Some critics have suggested that, in the atmosphere of heightened American patriotism in the wake of 9/11, that scrutiny of the act was bypassed because few would want to publicly object to a "patriotic" piece of legislation.
- ZIP - Zone Improvement Plan, as in ZIP code. "ZIP" reflects the added efficiency and speed of mail delivery with postal codes incorporated into the address.
- NOW - The National Organization for Women.