parataxis

noun

para·​tax·​is ˌper-ə-ˈtak-səs How to pronounce parataxis (audio)
ˌpa-rə-
: the placing of clauses or phrases one after another without coordinating or subordinating connectives

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek parátaxis "placing side by side, marshaling (of troops)," from paratag-, stem of paratassein "to place side by side, put (troops) in proper rank" (from para- para- entry 1 + tássein "to draw up in order [as troops, ships], post, place in order") + -sis -sis — more at tactic entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of parataxis was circa 1842

Rhymes for parataxis

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Browse Nearby Words

paratactic
parataxis
paratergite
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Cite this Entry

“Parataxis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/parataxis. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

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Medical Definition

parataxis

noun
para·​tax·​is -ˈtak-səs How to pronounce parataxis (audio)
plural parataxes -ˌsēz How to pronounce parataxis (audio)
: the parataxic mode of thinking
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