Adynaton (/ˌædɪˈnɑːtɒn, -tən/;[1] plural adynata) is a figure of speech in the form of hyperbole taken to such extreme lengths as to insinuate a complete impossibility:[2] I will sooner have a beard grow in the palm of my hand than he shall get one on his cheek.
[3]The word derives from the Greek ἀδύνατον (adunaton), neuter of ἀδύνατος (adunatos), "unable, impossible" (a-, "without" + dynasthai, "to be possible or powerful").
[6] However, it largely fell into disuse during the Middle Ages before undergoing a minor revival in the works of romantic poets, who would boast of the power of their love, and how it could never end.
Together, we shall sooner see, I, & you, The Rhône tarry, & reverse its course, The Saône roil, & return to source, Than this my fire ever die downAdynata are sometimes used within works of fiction or drama: Part heat from fire, then, by that notion, Part frost from snow, wet from the ocean!
Impossible tasks appear often in legends and folklore, and can form elements of ballads, riddles and proverbs.