sorites paradox (also called paradox of the heap) is a paradox that arises when unclear terms are used. the name of the paradox is related to the greek word for "heap" ('soros'). there are different versions, but a typical one involves a heap of sand. the heap is made of many grains of sand. so if one grain is removed, the structure will still be a heap. this process can be repeated, until only one grain of sand is left. since the heap never changed to a non-heap, this grain of sand is still a heap.