paradoxical

adjective

par·​a·​dox·​i·​cal ˌper-ə-ˈdäk-si-kəl How to pronounce paradoxical (audio)
ˌpa-rə-
1
a
: of the nature of a paradox
the paradoxical theory that global warming will lead to the next Ice Age
b
: inclined to paradoxes
2
: not being the normal or usual kind
a paradoxical pulse
paradoxical drug reactions
paradoxicality noun
paradoxically adverb
paradoxicalness noun

Examples of paradoxical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For now the answer taking shape is cautious, and a little paradoxical. Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 In the past scientists have found that closed timelike curves can’t be used for paradoxical time travel. Clara Moskowitz, Scientific American, 12 June 2026 That’s why some of their aimless enthusiasm around generative AI can feel so paradoxical and maddening. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 31 May 2026 For today’s college students, attitudes toward AI can seem paradoxical. Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for paradoxical

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of paradoxical was in 1598

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Cite this Entry

“Paradoxical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paradoxical. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

Medical Definition

paradoxical

adjective
par·​a·​dox·​i·​cal ˌpar-ə-ˈdäk-si-kəl How to pronounce paradoxical (audio)
variants also paradoxic
: not being the normal or usual kind
a paradoxical embolism

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