parallel
UK: ˈpærəlel | US: ˈpærəˌlel
adj. 1. (of lines, planes, or surfaces) side by side and having the same distance continuously between them.
adj. 2. occurring or existing at the same time or in a similar way; corresponding.
n. 1. a person or thing that is similar or analogous to another.
n. 2. a comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.
parallel = para<beside> + allel<one another>
- para (Greek: παρά, "beside, alongside")
- allel (Greek: ἀλλήλων, "one another, mutual")
Etymology Origin:
The word "parallel" originates from Greek parallēlos, combining para- ("beside") and allēlōn ("one another"). It originally described lines running side by side without meeting, later extending metaphorically to describe similarities or correspondences in abstract contexts. The logic reflects spatial alignment (physical lines) evolving into conceptual alignment (ideas, events).
The two roads run parallel to each other for miles.
Her career path parallels that of her mentor.
The study draws a parallel between sleep and memory retention.
Parallel processing improves computer efficiency.
Their experiences are strikingly parallel despite living in different countries.