Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

paradox

paradox (par"ȧ*doks) , noun

[French paradoxe, Latin paradoxum, from Greek para`doxon; para` beside, beyond, contrary to + dokei^n to think, suppose, imagine. See Para-, and Dogma.]

A tenet or proposition contrary to received opinion; an assertion or sentiment seemingly contradictory, or opposed to common sense; that which in appearance or terms is absurd, but yet may be true in fact.
A gloss there is to color that paradox, and make it appear in show not to be altogether unreasonable. — Hooker
This was sometime a paradox, but now the time gives it proof. — Shakespeare
Collocations (1)
Hydrostatic paradox , See under Hydrostatic.