English · Science & Technology
paradigm
/ˈpær.ə.daɪm/
[/ˈpær.ə.daɪm/]
model or pattern
Advancednoun
Definition
A typical example or model of something, or a framework of shared assumptions within a field.
Example
The discovery forced scientists to abandon the old paradigm and rethink their entire approach.
The discovery forced scientists to abandon the old paradigm and rethink their entire approach.
Etymology
From Greek 'paradeigma' meaning 'pattern, example'.
How & Where It’s Used
Used heavily in academic, scientific, and theoretical discussion.
Literary Heritage
Thomas Kuhn's 'The Structure of Scientific Revolutions' (1962) made the term central to philosophy of science.