Zeugma

usgb/ˈzuːɡmə/
noun

A figure of speech in which a single phrase or word is connected with two others, but is used differently and creates a different sense with each connection.

She stole his heart and his car - in this sentence, 'stole' is an example of zeugma.
Visual representation of "zeugma" - A figure of speech in which a single phrase or word is connected with two others, but is used differently and creates a different sense with each connection.

Often appears as...

  • zeugma in poetry
  • zeugma in literature

Usage tips

Literary

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "zeugma"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Literary Device

Zeugma often appears in literature to convey cleverness or humor through unexpected word pairings.

Illustration for Literary Device
He bolted the door and his breakfast.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Understanding Context

In zeugma, context is key; the meaning changes based on how the shared word relates to other words.

Illustration for Understanding Context
She opened her door and her heart to the orphans.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Recognizing Zeugma

Spot zeugmas by looking for a single word governing multiple objects in a way that alters its meaning with each.

Illustration for Recognizing Zeugma
He caught the train and a cold.
Visual representation of the word "Zeugma"

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