Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Palindrome Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔄
Add to dictionary

palindrome

[ˈpælɪnˌdoʊm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

word structure

A palindrome is a word, phrase, number, or other sequence of characters that reads the same forward and backward, ignoring spaces, punctuation, and capitalization. Common examples include words like 'madam' and 'racecar'. They are often used in puzzles, word games, and literature for their unique properties.

Synonyms

mirror word, reversible.

Examples of usage

  • The word 'level' is a palindrome.
  • She wrote 'A man, a plan, a canal, Panama!' as a famous palindrome.
  • The sequence '12321' is a numeric palindrome.
  • In the art of poetry, palindromes can add a creative twist.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Famous examples include 'A man a plan a canal Panama!' and 'Madam, in Eden, I'm Adam', both showcasing creative use in sentences.
  • The literary device is often used for humor or cleverness in poetry and prose, making it a playful tool for writers.

Mathematics

  • Numbers can also be palindromic; for example, 121 or 12321 read the same forwards and backwards.
  • Palindromic dates, like 02/02/2020, create unique moments that can be celebrated.

Cultural References

  • Palindromes have appeared in various cultures, demonstrating a universal fondness for symmetrical patterns in language.
  • Some shrines and temples contain inscriptions that are palindromic, emphasizing balance and the idea of eternity.

Games and Puzzles

  • Palindromes are often a subject in word games and puzzles, enjoyed by enthusiasts of language and logic.
  • Creating palindromes can become a competitive challenge, where players come up with the longest or most complex examples.

Origin of 'palindrome'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek 'palindromos', meaning 'running back again'.
  • It was first used in English in the early 17th century, showcasing the interest in wordplay during that time.

The term 'palindrome' is derived from the Greek word 'palindromos', which means 'running back again'. It is a compound of 'palin', meaning 'again', and 'dromos', meaning 'way, direction, or running'. The concept of palindrome dates back to ancient cultures, including the Greeks and Romans, who created various forms of palindromic inscriptions. Through history, palindromes have fascinated writers and linguists alike, appearing in literary works and puzzles throughout the ages. Their playful nature and symmetry make them a unique aspect of language that continues to be appreciated in modern word games and creative writing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,308, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.