Definition of: syllepsis

(si·lep′sis) noun plural ·ses (-sēz)
A figure of speech, common in classical Greek and Roman literature, by which an adjective or a verb is made to modify or govern two nouns, but must be understood in a different sense for each noun. This figure conveys a double meaning, often with humorous effect, as in Pope's comment on Queen Anne: Dost sometimes counsel take
—and sometimes tea. Compare ZEUGMA. [<LL syllepsis <Gk. syllēpsis <syn- together + lēpsis a taking <lēb-, lab-, stem of lambanein take]
—syl·lep′tic adjective