chiasm

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Noun chiasm has 1 sense

chiasma, chiasm, decussation - an intersection or crossing of two tracts in the form of the letter X
--₁ is a kind of structure, anatomical structure, complex body part, bodily structure, body structure
--₁ has particulars: optic chiasma, optic chiasm, chiasma opticum

Chiasm

Definition:

A chiasm is a type of rhetorical or literary figure of speech where elements in a sentence or phrase are reversed or repeated in a mirrored pattern. It often serves to emphasize a particular point or create a poetic effect.

Sense 1 - Rhetorical Device:

As a rhetorical device, a chiasm can be used to create an artistic or persuasive effect by balancing or structuring a sentence or phrase in a way that highlights the central message. For example:

"Fair is foul and foul is fair." - William Shakespeare

"When the going gets tough, the tough get going."

Sense 2 - Literary Device:

In literature, a chiasm can be employed as a structural technique by writers to bring attention to significant ideas or themes. It often adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Here is an example:

"The first shall be last, and the last shall be first."

Sense 3 - Biological Structure:

In anatomy and biology, a chiasm refers to the crossing or intersection of nerves or fibers. One common example of this is the optic chiasm, where the nerves coming from both eyes cross over in the brain. Here is a sample sentence:

"The optic chiasm is responsible for the partial crossover of visual information, allowing the brain to process visual input from both eyes."

Sense 4 - Mathematics and Genetics:

In mathematics and genetics, a chiasm refers to a crossover point in the strands of DNA during the process of genetic recombination. It plays a crucial role in creating genetic diversity. Example usage:

"The occurrence of a chiasm during meiosis results in genetic recombination, leading to the inheritance of traits from both parents."