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paradox

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A paradox is something that seems contradictory or unbelievable, but may or may not be true. (noun)

An example of paradox is going to war to bring about peace.
An example of paradox is loving someone so much, you push them away.

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See paradox in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

Archaic a statement contrary to common belief
a statement that seems contradictory, unbelievable, or absurd but that may be true in fact (Ex.: “Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink”)
a statement that is self-contradictory and, hence, false
a person, situation, act, etc. that seems to have contradictory or inconsistent qualities

See paradox in American Heritage Dictionary 4

(părˈə-dŏksˌ)

noun

A seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true: the paradox that standing is more tiring than walking.
One exhibiting inexplicable or contradictory aspects: “The silence of midnight, to speak truly, though apparently a paradox, rung in my ears” (Mary Shelley).
An assertion that is essentially self-contradictory, though based on a valid deduction from acceptable premises.
A statement contrary to received opinion.

Related Forms:

parˌa·doxˈi·cal adjective

parˌa·doxˈi·cal·ly adverb

parˌa·doxˈi·cal·ness noun

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