Chiastic

/kaɪˈæstɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or involving a chiasm; describing a crossing or X-shaped pattern, especially in anatomy, literature, or rhetoric.

Etymology

From Greek 'chiasmos' (crossing) with the suffix '-ic,' used to describe patterns that cross over or reverse themselves.

Kelly Says

In literature, 'chiastic' describes a beautiful sentence trick where words appear in reverse order—like 'Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country'—the pattern mirrors the X-shape of the optic chiasm!

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