semordnilaps

Semordnilaps are words that are spelled the same forwards and backwards, but have opposite meanings. The term is derived from the words "semordnilap" and "palindromes," which are words that read the same forwards and backwards. The concept of semordnilaps was popularized by the author Mark Davies in his 1994 book "The Meaning of Liff." The most well-known example of a semordnilap is "stressed" and "desserts," where "stressed" means feeling anxious or under pressure, while "desserts" refers to sweet dishes typically served after a meal. Other examples include "live" and "evil," "diner" and "renew," and "wolf" and "flow." Semordnilaps are a form of linguistic play and can be used in word games, puzzles, and riddles. They are also a subject of interest in linguistics and language studies.