PoliticsJuly 10, 2026

dissonance

/ˈdɪs.ə.nəns/

Definition

A lack of agreement or consistency between two things that should ideally align or coexist harmoniously.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'dissonantia,' meaning 'disagreement of sound.' It combines the prefix 'dis-' (apart) with 'sonare' (to sound), originally referring to musical discord before evolving to describe general conflict or inconsistency.

In the news

The author uses the term to highlight the glaring contradiction between the relatively healthy, prosperous reality of daily American society and the toxic, dysfunctional nature of its political state.

The Patient Is America. Here's the Prescription.

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Politico

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