epitasis

noun epit·a·sis \i-ˈpi-tə-səs\

plural epit·a·ses\-ˌsēz\

Definition of EPITASIS

: the part of a play developing the main action and leading to the catastrophe

Greek, increased intensity, from epiteinein to stretch tighter, from epi- + teinein to stretch — more at thin

First Known Use: 1583

Next Word in the Dictionary: epitaxyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: epitaphlessAll Words Near: epitasis

What made you want to look up epitasis? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears