epitasis

noun

epit·a·sis i-ˈpi-tə-səs

plural epitases i-ˈpi-tə-ˌsēz

: the part of a play developing the main action and leading to the catastrophe

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek epítasis "stretching, increase in intensity, development of the plot of a play," from epita-, variant stem of epiteínein "to stretch on or over, tighten, increase in intensity" (from epi- epi- + teínein "to stretch, extend, spread") + -sis -sis — more at tenant entry 1

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of epitasis was in 1583

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Epitasis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epitasis. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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