Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Para-
Par′a-
.1.
A prefix signifying
alongside of
, beside
, beyond
, against
, amiss
; as parable, literally, a placing beside; paradox, that which is contrary to opinion; parachronism. 2.
(Chem.)
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
Cf. opposite
, or in the respective positions 1 and 4; 2 and 5; or 3 and 6, as paraxylene; paroxybenzoic acid. Ortho-
, and Meta-
. Also used adjectively.