Hendiadys
/hɛnˈdaɪ.ə.dɪs/noun
A rhetorical figure in which two nouns joined by a conjunction express a single idea.
Did you know?Hendiadys dates back to ancient rhetoric, often used by legendary figures like Cicero to create powerful, memorable phrases that resonate through time.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἑν διά δυο
“One through two, indicating a unified meaning from two distinct components.”
Late Latin
Latin
hendiadys
“Adopted directly from Greek, referring to the rhetorical device.”
Early Modern English
English
hendiadys
“Brought into English rhetorical discourse, maintaining its Greek roots.”
19th Century
English
hendiadys
“Established as a term in English grammar and rhetoric studies.”