Russell's paradox

noun

Rus·​sell's paradox
ˈrəsəlz-
: a paradox that discloses itself in forming a class of all classes that are not members of themselves and in observing that the question of whether it is true or false if this class is a member of itself can be answered both ways compare liar paradox, vicious circle principle

Word History

Etymology

after Bertrand Russell

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Russell's paradox was in 1904

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Russell's paradox

Cite this Entry

“Russell's paradox.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Russell%27s%20paradox. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!