Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition

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Noun.

[NL., fr. Gr. [GREEK][GREEK][GREEK], fr. [GREEK][GREEK][GREEK] pointedly foolish;

ὀξύσ

sharp +

μωρόσ

foolish.]

(Rhet.)

A figure in which an epithet of a contrary signification is added to a word; e. g., cruel kindness; laborious idleness.

Noun.

[Gr. a smart saying which at first view appears foolish.]

A rhetorical figure, in which an epithet of a quite contrary signification is added to a word; as cruel kindness.

Oxyprussic acid, chloroprussic acid.

See also: oxymoron and Oxymoron

oxymóron m