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

The shimmering gown featured a formfitting design with sinuous sculptural elements at the neckline and hip for asymmetrical juxtaposition. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2025

This juxtaposition is impressive. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 28 Aug. 2025

The octogenarian trying to reach a new generation of voters amid a demoralized Democratic Party is a stark juxtaposition. —Jeremy Gorner, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2025

Using clean lines and the occasional modern accent can create juxtaposition and a place for the eye to rest, says Sallie Lord, founder and principal designer of GreyHunt Interiors. —Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin juxta near + English position — more at joust

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for juxtaposition

• academician
• cycloaddition
• decomposition
• diagnostician
• disinhibition
• indisposition
• interposition
• mathematician
• metacognition
• metaphysician
• neurotransmission
• nonrecognition

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