sorites

noun

so·​ri·​tes sə-ˈrī-(ˌ)tēz 

plural sorites

: an argument consisting of propositions so arranged that the predicate of any one forms the subject of the next and the conclusion unites the subject of the first proposition with the predicate of the last

Examples of sorites in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Mill doesn't tell us how to deal with the risk of viral notoriety, the sorites problem (in which individual expressions of criticism or objection add up to overwhelming disapproval), or the gender gap in tolerance for public disagreement. —Samuel Goldman, The Week, 21 Mar. 2022

There is a puzzle in philosophy called the sorites, or heap paradox. —BostonGlobe.com, 15 June 2021

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek sōritēs, from sōros heap

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined above