Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
polysyndeton
Noun
ˌpɒlɪˈsɪndɪtən
Definition
Polysyndeton is a literary and rhetorical device in which several conjunctions are used in close succession, often slowing down the rhythm of the prose or emphasizing the connectedness of elements within a series.
Examples
- In the sentence, ‘I love to swim and to run and to bike,’ the repeated use of ‘and’ exemplifies polysyndeton.
- “He ran and jumped and laughed for joy,” uses polysyndeton to emphasize the actions.
- The polysyndetic phrase: ‘We have ships and men and money’ highlights the importance of each element in the context.
Meaning
The use of multiple conjunctions in a sentence to link various parts, often creating a deliberate effect on the pacing and tone of the expression.
Synonyms
- Conjunctional repetition
- Linking conjunction
- Coordinative conjunction
