Definition

A piece of work that adds to or comes from a larger work, often serving as a supplement or an extra detail.

Example

The artist created a parergon that beautifully complemented the main painting.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the parergon in an artist's work?

Not really, what do you mean by that?

I mean, sometimes the extra pieces or details can be just as interesting as the main artwork.

That's true! Those supplementary elements really add depth to the whole piece.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Parergon is formed from "para-" (meaning beside or alongside) and "ergon" (meaning work or task). The word refers to something that is supplementary or an accessory to a main work or task.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'beside' ('para-') the main 'work' ('ergon') — that's why parergon means an accessory or supplementary work.

Visually Confused Words