juxtaposition

noun

jux·​ta·​po·​si·​tion ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzi-shən 

: the act or an instance of placing two or more things side by side often to compare or contrast or to create an interesting effect

an unusual juxtaposition of colors

also : the state of being so placed

contrasting shapes placed in juxtaposition to each other

juxtapositional

ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzi-sh(ə-)nəl

 

adjective

Examples of juxtaposition in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That gold’s striking juxtaposition to the rich blue of the lacquer dial and ceramic bezel is not being lost on the crowds mingling in the Geneva Palexpo convention center at the time of writing. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2024

Her looks offer an elevated juxtaposition to the stylish tunnel looks that are a part of leagues like the NBA. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 8 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin juxta near + English position — more at joust

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

juxtaposition

noun

jux·​ta·​po·​si·​tion ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzish-ən 

: the act or an instance of placing two or more things side by side

also : the state of being so placed

juxtapose

ˈjək-stə-ˌpōz 

transitive verb

juxtaposed; juxtaposing