duality

noun

du·​al·​i·​ty dü-ˈa-lə-tē How to pronounce duality (audio)
 also  dyü-
plural dualities
: the quality or state of having two different or opposite parts or elements : dualism
That duality—sophistication paired with authenticity on the wine list, simplicity spiced with creativity on the menu—gives Marea energy and distinctive character.Thomas Matthews
Another series from later years consisted of views of New York skyscrapers … which incorporate abstract patterns of light and shadow that express the duality of feeling, the fascination and loathing he had come to feel for the city.Naomi Rosenblum
By the wave/particle duality of quantum mechanics, light can be regarded as both a wave and a particle.Stephen Hawking
also : a difference between two opposite things : a division into two opposite groups : dichotomy
For the most part Prince seems to be hoisting himself on the horns of the same duality that inspires most of his song lyrics: spirituality vs. carnality. David Hiltbrand
As my meditation teacher says, "Judgment is a form of violence to yourself as well as others. It creates duality and separates you from others." Yoga Journal

Examples of duality in a Sentence

the duality of human nature They discussed the dualities of the novel's characters.
Recent Examples on the Web
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Her character embodies the duality that runs throughout the series: tradition versus modernity, family versus business, and immigrant dreams versus criminal reality. Pooja Shah, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 Livermore Valley Opera brings the composer’s masterwork to life on stage at the Bankhead Theater this weekend for four performances with that duality fully in mind. Randy McMullen, The Mercury News, 27 Feb. 2025 The song is quintessential Kendrick duality — fighter and lover, Malcolm and Martin, André 3000 and Antwan André Patton. 2. Stephen Kearse, Vulture, 4 Feb. 2025 Her scheming plot to marry into money failed, but that doesn’t stop her from harnessing her savvy social skills and duality to get her way. Athena Sobhan, People.com, 16 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for duality

Word History

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of duality was in 1532

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Cite this Entry

“Duality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/duality. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

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