Parallel
volume
British pronunciation/pˈæɹəlˌɛl/
American pronunciation/ˈpɛɹəˌɫɛɫ/

Definition & Meaning of "parallel"

parallel
01

having an equal distance from each other at every point

synonyms

collateral

parallel definition and meaning
example
Example
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The two lines on the graph are parallel, indicating no change in their relationship.
She parked her car parallel to the curb.
02

occurring at the same time but independently of each other

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Example
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There were parallel developments in technology across different parts of the world during the 20th century.
The parallel investigations by two different agencies led to conflicting conclusions.
03

having a comparable nature, structure, or function to something else

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Example
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Their experiences in different countries were surprisingly parallel.
The novel explores themes that are parallel to those in the author ’s earlier work.
04

transmitting multiple pieces of data at the same time using a connection with several pathways

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Example
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The system uses parallel communication to handle high-speed data transfers.
The printer used a parallel connection for transmitting instructions.
Parallel
01

a pair of geometric figures, such as lines or planes, that do not meet or intersect, no matter how far they are extended

parallel definition and meaning
example
Example
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The two parallels in the diagram never intersect.
The architect used several parallels to design the structure.
02

a resemblance or comparison between two things

example
Example
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The psychologist drew a parallel between dreams and subconscious desires.
There is a parallel between the rise of social media and changes in communication patterns.
03

an imaginary line running horizontally around the Earth, used to measure distance north or south of the equator

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Example
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A parallel divides the Earth into northern and southern hemispheres.
A parallel helps determine the latitude of a location.
04

a person or thing similar to another

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Example
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The new manager is a parallel to the previous one in terms of leadership style.
His life story presents a parallel to the struggles of many in the community.
to parallel
01

to match something closely, suggesting similarity or equivalence

Transitive: to parallel sth
to parallel definition and meaning
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Example
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The new software update aims to parallel the functionality of its competitor's product.
Her artwork often parallels the style of famous painters from the Renaissance era.
02

to extend in the same direction and remain the same distance apart

Transitive: to parallel something linear
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Example
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The river parallels the road for several miles.
The new highway will parallel the existing one to reduce traffic congestion.
03

to position something so that it runs in the same direction and stays the same distance apart from something else

Transitive: to parallel two things | to parallel sth with sth
example
Example
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She carefully paralleled the picture frames along the wall.
The designer paralleled the stripes on the fabric to create a consistent pattern.
parallel
01

in a straight line that does not meet or cross

example
Example
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The two highways run parallel to each other for miles.
The fence runs parallel to the edge of the garden.
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