Chiasmus \Chi*as"mus\ (k[-i]*[a^]z"m[u^]s), n. [NL., fr. Gr.
chiasmo`s a placing crosswise, fr. chia`zein. See {Chiasm}.]
(Rhet.)
An inversion of the order of words or phrases, when repeated
or subsequently referred to in a sentence; thus,
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If e'er to bless thy sons
My voice or hands deny,
These hands let useful skill forsake,
This voice in silence die. --Dwight.
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