- A prefix denoting: (a) Likeness, similarity or connection or that the substance resembles, but is distinct from, that to the name of which it is prefixed; as paraldehyde, paraconine, etc.; also, an isomeric modification. (b) Specifically: (Organ. Chem.) That two groups or radicals substituted in the benzene nucleus are opposite or in the respective positions 1 and 4; 2 and 5; or 3 and 6, as paraxylene; paroxybenzoic acid. Cf. Ortho-, and Meta-. Also used adjectively.
- A prefix signifying alongside of, beside, beyond, against, amiss; as parable, literally, a placing beside; paradox, that which is contrary to opinion; parachronism.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
| APA | Webster's. (2011). para-. Retrieved September 22, 2026, from http://smartdefine.org/para-/definitions/2041876 |
| Chicago | Webster's. 2011. "para-" http://smartdefine.org/para-/definitions/2041876 (accessed September 22, 2026). |
| Harvard | Webster's 2011, para-, Smart Define, viewed 22 September, 2026, <http://smartdefine.org/para-/definitions/2041876>. |
| MLA | Webster's. "para-" 27 May 2011. Web. 22 September 2026. <http://smartdefine.org/para-/definitions/2041876> |