Parity

Noun

Definition: The state or condition of being equal, especially in terms of value, status, or importance.

Definition: The state of parity in technology, such as in computer memory or data transmission, where the number of 1s is always odd or always even.

Synonyms: Equality, Equivalence, Balance

Antonyms: Inequality, Imbalance, Disparity

Examples:

The company aims to achieve gender parity in its leadership positions.
The computer system uses parity bits to detect errors in data transmission.

Mnemonics:

Think of "parity" as "pair-it-y" - it signifies a state of pairing or making equal.
Parity bits help to pair and equalize data.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English (in the sense 'equality of rank or status'): from Old French 'parite', from Latin 'paritas', from 'par' (equal).

Historical Usage:

The word 'parity' has been used to describe the state or condition of equality since its origins in late Middle English.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Parity of esteem"

Explanation:

Refers to the equal value or importance given to different groups or individuals, especially in the context of social, cultural, or political considerations.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'parity' with 'parity bits' or technical use in computing.

Explanation:

While 'parity' does have a technical usage in computing, its primary meaning is the state or condition of being equal.