Zeugma - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

Zeugma is when a single word, usually a verb or adjective, applies to multiple parts of a sentence, but in different senses. It's like a linguistic shortcut! Think of it as multitasking with words. ✍️ For instance, you might say, "She broke his car and his heart," where "broke" applies literally to the car and figuratively to the heart. It can create humor or emphasize the contrast between the different parts of the sentence. Zeugma adds a clever twist to your writing. It's more sophisticated than a simple list.

Etymology

The word "zeugma" comes from the Greek word "zeugma," meaning "a bond" or "a yoke." The Greeks used it to describe the joining or connecting of different things. It entered English in the 16th century with its current meaning, referring to the literary device. The Greek root "zeug-" is also found in words like "zygote," relating to joining in biology. So, zeugma is all about cleverly linking things together with words.

Related Words

Examples

• "He lost his keys and his temper."
• "She opened her book and her mind."
• "With weeping eyes and hearts, they left the scene."
• "The suitcase and my patience were wearing thin."

Encouragement

Try using zeugma in your writing to add flair! It's a cool way to show off your linguistic skills. Play around with different meanings of words to create memorable sentences. 🎉

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