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Oxymoron: meaning, definitions and examples

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oxymoron

 

[ ɒkˈsɪmɔːrɒn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

literary term

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two seemingly contradictory terms are combined to create a new meaning. This literary device often highlights a particular quality or paradox in an idea, making it more striking and memorable. Common examples of oxymorons include phrases like 'deafening silence' or 'bittersweet.' They can be used in poetry, prose, and everyday conversation to emphasize complexity or irony in a situation.

Synonyms

contradiction, incongruity, paradox

Examples of usage

  • The phrase 'jumbo shrimp' is a classic example of an oxymoron.
  • She had a bittersweet feeling about graduating from school.
  • The comedian's act was full of clever oxymorons.
  • He described the experience as a 'painfully beautiful' moment.

Translations

Translations of the word "oxymoron" in other languages:

🇵🇹 oxímoro

🇮🇳 विरोधाभास

🇩🇪 Oxymoron

🇮🇩 oksimoron

🇺🇦 оксиморон

🇵🇱 oksymoron

🇯🇵 オキシモロン

🇫🇷 oxymore

🇪🇸 oxímoron

🇹🇷 oksimoron

🇰🇷 옥시모론

🇸🇦 أوكسيمورون

🇨🇿 oxymóron

🇸🇰 oxymoron

🇨🇳 矛盾修辞法

🇸🇮 oksimoron

🇮🇸 oksímorón

🇰🇿 оксиморон

🇬🇪 ოქსიმორონი

🇦🇿 oksimoron

🇲🇽 oxímoron

Etymology

The term 'oxymoron' comes from the Greek words 'oxus,' meaning 'sharp' or 'keen,' and 'moros,' meaning 'dull' or 'foolish.' The combination of these two opposing ideas encapsulates the essence of the word itself, as an oxymoron brings together contradictory elements to create a unique meaning. The use of oxymorons dates back to ancient Greek literature, where playwrights, poets, and philosophers employed them to express complex thoughts and emotions succinctly. Over time, the term evolved through Latin and Middle English, solidifying its place in modern literary and rhetorical studies. Today, oxymorons are widely recognized as effective tools in both literary and colloquial contexts, allowing speakers and writers to convey depth and nuances in their language.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,411 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.