contradictio in adjecto

noun

con·​tra·​dic·​tio in ad·​jec·​to
ˌkän‧trəˈdiktē(ˌ)ōˌinädˈyek(ˌ)tō,
-ˈdikshē(ˌ)ōˌinaˈjek-
plural contradictiones in adjecto
ˌ⸗⸗ˌ⸗⸗ˈōˌnēz-
: contradiction in terms

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, literally, contradiction in what is added

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near contradictio in adjecto

Cite this Entry

“Contradictio in adjecto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contradictio%20in%20adjecto. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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