A general term for orthographical figures (changes to the spelling of words). This includes alteration of the letters or syllables in single words, including additions, omissions, inversions, and substitutions.

Such changes are considered conscious choices made by the artist or orator for the sake of eloquence or meter, in contrast to the same kinds of changes done accidentally and discussed by grammarians as vices (see barbarism).

• Figures - Groupings

• barbarismus
• Four Categories of Change

Sources: Mosellanus a3r-a4r; Peacham (1577) E1v