Zeugma (Noun)
Meaning
Use of a verb with two or more complements, playing on the verb's polysemy, for humorous effect; "`Mr. Pickwick took his hat and his leave' is an example of zeugma".
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- I lost my keys and my temper in the argument.
- He caught the ball and the eye of the coach.
- The plane took off and my breath with it.
- She grabbed her purse and the opportunity.
- The teacher asked the students to open their books and their minds.