Parallel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Science

• In physics, parallel circuits provide multiple paths for electricity, allowing devices to work independently.
• In astronomy, parallel lines can be a way to understand the relationship between distant stars, often found in star maps.
• Parallel universes are a popular topic in theoretical physics, suggesting that our universe may be one of many.

Mathematics

• In geometry, two lines that are parallel have the same slope, which means they rise and run at the same rate.
• Parallel lines do not intersect, which is a crucial property used in proofs and theorems.
• The notion of parallelism extends to planes in three-dimensional space, determining how various shapes interact.

Pop Culture

• In movies, such as 'Parallel Mothers', the theme may explore dual lives or paths that never connect.
• The concept of 'parallel worlds' is a frequent trope in science fiction, illustrating alternate realities.
• Songs sometimes use parallels in their lyrics to compare two different situations or feelings.

Literature

• Literary works often draw parallels between characters' experiences to highlight similarities and differences.
• Authors like George Orwell used parallelism in their writing to create rhythm and reinforce themes.
• In poetry, parallel structures help create imagery and emphasis, making the language more powerful.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Greek word 'parallelos', meaning 'beside one another'.
• Latin adopted the term as 'parallelus', which means 'alongside'.
• The concept has been used in geometry since ancient Greek times to describe lines that do not meet.

The word 'parallel' originates from the Greek word 'parallelos', meaning 'beside one another'. It was first used in English in the 16th century. The concept of parallel lines was developed in ancient geometry, notably by Euclid. Over time, the term has come to be widely used in various fields, from mathematics to computing, to describe things that are side by side or have similar characteristics without intersecting.

See also: parallelepiped, parallelism, parallelizing, parallelogram, parallels, unparalleled.

This word ranks #1,683, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

• ...
• 1680 extension
• 1681 yourself
• 1682 authors
• 1683 parallel
• 1684 assume
• 1685 buy
• 1686 continuous
• ...