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merism

noun/ˈmɛrɪzəm/

a figure of speech that pairs contrasting terms to represent a whole

The phrase 'lock, stock, and barrel' is a classic example of merism, illustrating the entirety of the experience involved in the process.

wholeentiretytotality
word origin — from Greek 'merismos', meaning 'division'

Word Ultra — Set 49

Set 49 of Word Ultra covers 5 words: merism, palimpsest, odontograph, hesychasm, heuristic. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. merism · noun/ˈmɛrɪzəm/

    a figure of speech that pairs contrasting terms to represent a whole

    The phrase 'lock, stock, and barrel' is a classic example of merism, illustrating the entirety of the experience involved in the process.

    Synonyms: whole, entirety, totality

    Origin: from Greek 'merismos', meaning 'division'

  2. palimpsest · noun/ˈpæl.ɪm.pˌsɛst/

    a manuscript or piece of writing material on which the original text has been effaced to make room for later writing but of which traces remain

    The ancient manuscript was a fascinating palimpsest, revealing fragments of earlier texts beneath the later writings.

    Synonyms: manuscript, parchment, document

    Origin: From the Greek word 'palimpsēstos,' meaning 'scraped again,' derived from 'palin' (again) and 'psestai' (to scrape).

  3. odontograph · noun/əˈdɑntəˌɡræf/

    a diagram or representation of the teeth used for dental records or analysis

    The dentist created an odontograph to accurately document the patient's dental condition for future reference.

    Synonyms: dental chart, tooth diagram, odontogram

    Origin: from the Greek words 'odous' meaning 'tooth' and 'graph' meaning 'to write' or 'to draw'

  4. hesychasm · noun/ˈhɛzɪˌkæzəm/

    a mystical tradition of prayer and stillness in the eastern orthodox church

    The practice of hesychasm allows practitioners to cultivate inner peace through silent prayer and contemplation.

    Synonyms: stillness, tranquility, contemplation

    Origin: from the Greek word 'hesychia', meaning 'stillness' or 'silence'

  5. heuristic · noun/hjuˈrɪstɪk/

    a problem-solving approach that employs practical methods and shortcuts to produce solutions that may not be optimal but are sufficient for immediate goals

    The team adopted a heuristic approach to quickly tackle the complex project, prioritizing efficiency over perfection.

    Synonyms: approach, method, strategy

    Origin: from the Greek 'heuriskein', meaning 'to discover'.