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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The lighthearted juxtaposition of Vessel’s stage presence with the moody and solemn nature of Sleep Token’s music served as a good reminder that, even apart from all the lore, this is just a really solid rock band with songs that pack a heavy punch when performed live. Mackenzie Cummings-Grady, Billboard, 23 Sep. 2025 The main cool factor of both looks comes directly from the juxtaposition of warm fall accessories with summer's most casual footwear. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 20 Sep. 2025 In a film filled with jump scares, the juxtaposition of laughs was genius. Amy Lindgren, Twin Cities, 20 Sep. 2025 Serving as a juxtaposition to those signatures, however, is its annual Ice Cube Collection—a monochrome offering in 18-karat ethical white or rose gold with various geometric arrangements of diamonds set in square settings. Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 19 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for juxtaposition

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Juxtaposition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/juxtaposition. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on juxtaposition

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!