juxtapose

verb

jux·​ta·​pose ˈjək-stə-ˌpōz How to pronounce juxtapose (audio)
juxtaposed; juxtaposing

transitive verb

: to place (different things) side by side (as to compare them or contrast them or to create an interesting effect)
juxtapose unexpected combinations of colors, shapes and ideasJ. F. T. Bugental

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Is juxtapose a back-formation?

A back-formation is a word that has come about through the removal of a prefix or a suffix from a longer word. Etymologists believe juxtapose is a back-formation that was created when people trimmed down the noun juxtaposition. Historical evidence supports the idea: juxtaposition shows up in the 17th century and juxtapose in the 19th.  Juxtaposition is a combination of Latin juxta, meaning "near," and English "position."

Examples of juxtapose in a Sentence

a display that juxtaposes modern art with classical art
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mixing a variety of materials, bringing in natural elements, and juxtaposing smooth surfaces with more rugged textures such as bouclé creates visual balance and makes a space feel more intentional and thoughtfully designed. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Jan. 2025 The first-look photo juxtaposes Willie with a human-sized bench. Tony Maglio, IndieWire, 13 Jan. 2025 Others juxtapose stability in the UK with the U.S. where there is a higher turnover of leaders, albeit in a market where competition and consolidation have been more intense. Jake Kanter, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2025 Fans are fixated on his greatness juxtaposed against the rest of the Bengals’ buffoonery. The Athletic Nfl Staff, The Athletic, 3 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for juxtapose 

Word History

Etymology

probably back-formation from juxtaposition

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of juxtapose was in 1851

Podcast

Dictionary Entries Near juxtapose

Cite this Entry

“Juxtapose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/juxtapose. Accessed 23 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

juxtapose

verb
jux·​ta·​pose ˈjək-stə-ˌpōz How to pronounce juxtapose (audio)
juxtaposed; juxtaposing
: to place side by side
juxtaposition
ˌjək-stə-pə-ˈzish-ən
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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