\Chi*as"mus\, n. [NL., fr. Gr. ? a placing crosswise,
fr. ?. 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.