What does parallel mean?
Parallel describes things that follow the same direction, correspond closely, or proceed alongside one another. Parallel lines remain a constant distance apart and do not intersect, while parallel activities happen at the same time or in a comparable way. The word can also describe two people, institutions, or systems that have similar structures or functions. As a noun, a parallel is a corresponding example, a similarity, or a geological feature formed alongside others. As a verb, to parallel something means to match its course, development, or characteristics. In everyday use, parallel often conveys close correspondence: a parallel career follows a similar path, and parallel processing refers to tasks carried out at the same time. The term is useful because it captures both spatial alignment and figurative correspondence without implying that the compared things are identical.
Moving or extending in the same direction without meeting; corresponding closely in position, development, function, or character.
"The report notes a clear parallel between regional demand and falling unemployment."
Common in geometry, technical descriptions, and figurative comparisons.
A person, thing, course, or example that corresponds to another; a close similarity; or one of a series of aligned geological features.
"The two novels offer an interesting parallel in their treatment of family conflict."
“A parallel with” compares something to something else; “a parallel between” usually compares two things directly.
To match or keep pace with another course, development, or achievement, or to place something alongside another.
"The new system parallels the structure of the previous version while adding modern security features."
Often used figuratively for achievements, trends, or developments that closely correspond.
Used for multiple corresponding examples, similarities, courses, or geological features.
"The author draws several parallels between the two political movements."
Parallel lines never meet, but parallel ideas can meet in agreement—and sometimes in perfectly matched contradiction.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parallel come from?
The word comes through Latin from Greek parallelos, formed from para-, meaning “beside,” and allos, meaning “other.” The original sense referred to lines or objects standing beside one another without meeting. English later extended the term from geometry to corresponding examples, processes, and development.
Related word forms
How parallel is actually used
The adjective is especially common in technical, educational, and figurative contexts. As a noun, “a parallel with” usually introduces an analogy, while “a parallel between” compares two things. The verb often means to match or correspond closely to someone else's actions or progress.
Easily confused with parallel
Parallel describes lines, processes, or matching relationships, whereas paralegal refers to a legal assistant.
Parallel concerns corresponding directions or processes, while parliament is a legislative body.