juxtaposition

noun

jux·​ta·​po·​si·​tion ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzi-shən How to pronounce juxtaposition (audio)
: 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
 How to pronounce juxtaposition (audio)
adjective

Examples of juxtaposition in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Using Elsa’s passion for space as a jumping-off point, Roseberry created a collection for Spring Summer 2024 that’s rooted in juxtapositions, offering designs that often put an emphasis on exaggerated shoulder details. Laurie Brookins, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Mar. 2024 And his juxtaposition of hood aesthetics with delicate music has been done before, like by fleeting singer RMR in 2020. Mankaprr Conteh, Rolling Stone, 7 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for juxtaposition 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'juxtaposition.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin juxta near + English position — more at joust

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of juxtaposition was in 1654

Dictionary Entries Near juxtaposition

Cite this Entry

“Juxtaposition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/juxtaposition. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

juxtaposition

noun
jux·​ta·​po·​si·​tion ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzish-ən How to pronounce juxtaposition (audio)
: the act or an instance of placing two or more things side by side
also : the state of being so placed
juxtapose transitive verb
juxtaposed; juxtaposing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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