juxtaposition

noun

jux·​ta·​po·​si·​tion ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzi-shən 

: the act or an instance of placing two or more things side by side often to compare or contrast or to create an interesting effect

an unusual juxtaposition of colors

also : the state of being so placed

contrasting shapes placed in juxtaposition to each other

juxtapositional

ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzi-sh(ə-)nəl

 

adjective

Examples of juxtaposition in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The juxtaposition of Holly’s career with the content of her podcast might leave audience members scratching their heads. —Nick Kasmik, USA TODAY, 26 June 2024

The juxtaposition is meant to be jarring, of course. —Jennifer Culp, Them, 26 June 2024

Spotted again leaving the Ritz Hotel, Campbell traded her heels for a pair of purple-and-white Nike Air Jordans with black details, creating a stark juxtaposition between her sporty heels and ladylike suit. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 25 June 2024

Their similarities are striking, as one takes in the juxtapositions of the two late designers’ creations at the Fondation Azzedine Alaïa. —Jennifer Weil, WWD, 24 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin juxta near + English position — more at joust

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

juxtaposition

noun

jux·​ta·​po·​si·​tion ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzish-ən 

: the act or an instance of placing two or more things side by side

also : the state of being so placed

juxtapose

ˈjək-stə-ˌpōz 

transitive verb

juxtaposed; juxtaposing