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Definition of paradoxical

paradoxical

/ˌpær.əˈdɑːk.sɪ.kəl/
par · a · dox · i · cal
Adverb:paradoxically
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paradoxical Lexical Profile

paradoxical Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Seemingly absurd or self-contradictory, yet proving to be true or valid upon closer investigation.

Example

"It is a paradoxical truth that strict boundaries often provide people with a greater sense of creative freedom."

2

Having contradictory or conflicting qualities, phases, or characteristics (of a person, condition, or phenomenon).

Example

"The patient experienced a paradoxical reaction to the sedative, becoming increasingly agitated instead of calm."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

paradisea
paradisical
paradox
paradoxical
paradoxically
paradrop
paraffin

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from Late Latin 'paradoxus' and Ancient Greek 'paradoxos' (meaning 'contrary to expectation' or 'incredible'), formed from 'para-' ('beyond' or 'contrary to') and 'doxa' ('opinion').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Paradoxical. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/paradoxical
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