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topos

noun

plural topoi ˈtō-ˌpȯi How to pronounce topos (audio)
ˈtä-
: a traditional or conventional literary or rhetorical theme or topic

Examples of topos in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The idea refers to non-normative spaces in which a juxtaposition of scenes and stories allows the joining-together of divergent temporalities and locations in a way that defies patriarchal and authoritarian regulations of social and political topoi. Javier Montes, Artforum, 1 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Greek, short for koinos topos, literally, common place

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of topos was in 1936

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Topos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topos. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

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