Definition:
A kind of ellipsis in which one word (usually a verb) is understood differently in relation to two or more other words, which it modifies or governs. Adjective: sylleptic. See also zeugma.
Etymology:
From the Greek, "a taking"Examples:
- "I live in shame and the suburbs."
(Uncle Fester in Addams Family Values, 1993) - "When I address Fred I never have to raise either my voice or my hopes."
(E.B. White, "Dog Training") - "We consumers like names that reflect what the economy does. We know, for example, that International Business Machines makes business machines; and Ford Motors makes Fords; and Sara Lee makes us fat."
(Dave Barry, "Dave's World," April 8, 2001) - "Piano, n. A parlor utensil for subduing the impenitent visitor. It is operated by depressing the keys of the machine and the spirits of the audience."
(Ambrose Bierce, A Devil's Dictionary) - "I finally told Ross, late in the summer, that I was losing weight, my grip, and possibly my mind."
(James Thurber, The Years with Ross, 1959) - "She tracks sand in as well as ideas, and I have to sweep up after her two or three times a day."
(E.B. White, "On a Florida Key") - "The ice trays show deep claw marks, where people have tried to pry them free, using can openers and knives and screwdrivers and petulance."
(E.B. White, "On a Florida Key") - Bryant Gumbel's well-publicized memo ticked off the Today Show's troubles--and other personalities on the top-rated show.
- "You took my hand and breath away."
(Tyler Hilton, "You, My Love") - "You held your breath and the door for me."
(Alanis Morrissette, "Head Over Feet") - "PEACE. Live in it or rest in it."
(bumper sticker) - "She blew my nose and then she blew my mind."
(Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, "Honky Tonk Woman") - The secret to becoming a writer is to persist--to keep on writing regardless if you're paid any heed or money.
Pronunciation: si-LEP-sis
