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.
Politics seems to provide most of the examples. Each acronym serves as a sort of slogan:
- MAD - This acronym is the same as the word meaning insane, but that might be a coincidence.
- NUTS - This is clearly a contrived acronym, both to play on the acronym MAD as well as assert the viewpoint that it would be mad to rely on the mutual assured destruction.
- START - Apparently intended by its coiners as a "start" in the right direction, i.e., nuclear disarmament
- USA PATRIOT Act - Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001
