Dichorism
/daɪˈkɔːrɪzəm/noun
The condition of having two forms, phases, or distinct states.
Did you know?Dichorism is built from Greek roots meaning “two” and “separation,” and the same ancient *chor-* root also lives in words like **chorus** and **synchronize**—language quietly preserving the idea of things moving together or apart.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
dichōrismos
“a separation into two parts; a division into two”
Late Latin
Latin
dichorismus
“division into two”
Medieval Latin
Latin
dichorisma
“a twofold division; a bifurcation”
Modern Scientific English
English
dichorism
“the state or condition of being divided into two forms or phases”
Explore more surprising origins