duality

noun

du·​al·​i·​ty dü-ˈa-lə-tē How to pronounce duality (audio)
 also  dyü-
plural dualities
: the quality or state of having two different or opposite parts or elements : dualism
That duality—sophistication paired with authenticity on the wine list, simplicity spiced with creativity on the menu—gives Marea energy and distinctive character.Thomas Matthews
Another series from later years consisted of views of New York skyscrapers … which incorporate abstract patterns of light and shadow that express the duality of feeling, the fascination and loathing he had come to feel for the city.Naomi Rosenblum
By the wave/particle duality of quantum mechanics, light can be regarded as both a wave and a particle.Stephen Hawking
also : a difference between two opposite things : a division into two opposite groups : dichotomy
For the most part Prince seems to be hoisting himself on the horns of the same duality that inspires most of his song lyrics: spirituality vs. carnality. David Hiltbrand
As my meditation teacher says, "Judgment is a form of violence to yourself as well as others. It creates duality and separates you from others." Yoga Journal

Examples of duality in a Sentence

the duality of human nature They discussed the dualities of the novel's characters.
Recent Examples on the Web As the duality of loss and regrowth takes hold in the AI era, everyone involved in music must amplify the latter, while keeping the former as muted as possible. Michael Gallant, Billboard, 15 May 2024 In many cases, the city's hospitality scene reflects this duality. Dobrina Zhekova, Travel + Leisure, 9 May 2024 The exhibit’s name suggests duality in and of itself. Ken Makin, The Christian Science Monitor, 9 May 2024 That duality was encapsulated on the day the House speaker visited Columbia. Alex Lemonides, New York Times, 9 May 2024 But the duality of Maxine was an aspect of her character that Wiig worked hard to showcase. Brande Victorian, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Sep. 2019 This theme of duality and contradictions is going to be the central narrative with Jupiter entering Gemini, your ninth house this spring. Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Apr. 2024 This week's challenge would be for the chefs to pair off and create two dishes that represent the theme of duality — a signature of Wright’s creations. Rachel Bernhard, Journal Sentinel, 10 Apr. 2024 Like the masks, Alan Ritchson is a study in duality. Chris Gardner, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'duality.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of duality was in 1532

Dictionary Entries Near duality

Cite this Entry

“Duality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/duality. Accessed 19 May. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on duality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!