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 mountain ranges and fiery Maple and Aspen trees makes for an incredible sight to see, unlike anywhere else in Canada. —Kaitlyn McInnis, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

The former juxtaposition was a coincidence, according to gallery director Emilio Steinberger, but the second was very much planned (the gallery has worked with Thomas). —Sarah Douglas, ARTnews.com, 16 Oct. 2024

The juxtaposition seen in the latest New York Fed survey runs par for the course with what other data has been showing for years: The US economy is running quite strong, but people aren’t feeling that great about it, said Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst for Bankrate. —Alicia Wallace, CNN, 15 Oct. 2024

The online-only brand quickly gained an ardent following for its fresh take on shirting: a juxtaposition of traditional men’s tailoring with a decidedly feminine perspective that results in button-front styles with details such as cocktail cuffs, cutaway collars, and puffed sleeves. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 12 Oct. 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