Definition of: comparison

(kəm·par′ə·sən) noun
1. A comparing; an estimate or statement of relative likeness or unlikeness.
2. Gram. That inflection of adjectives or adverbs which indicates differences of degree. There are three degrees of comparison, the positive, comparative, and superlative, the last two being regularly expressed by adding –er or -est to the positive (except in words of three syllables or more), or by using more or most, less or least, before it.
3. That which in its relation to something else serves as an illustration or example; a parallel: an act without comparison.
4. Any rhetorical figure that sets forth the points of similarity or contrast between one person or thing and another, such as a simile or metaphor. See synonyms under ANALOGY, SIMILE. [<OF comparaison <L comparatio, -onis <comparare COMPARE]