‖Chi‐as″mus (?), n. [NL., fr. Gr. χιασμόσ a placing crosswise, fr. χιάζειν. See Chiasm.] (Rhet.) An inversion of the order of words or phrases, when repeated or subsequently referred to in a sentence; thus,
If e'er to bless thy sons
My voice or hands deny,
These hands let useful skill forsake,
This voice in silence die.
Dwight.