Which literary device combines contradictory terms, like "deafening silence"?

The correct choice is oxymoron, as it specifically refers to a figure of speech where contradictory terms are placed next to each other to create a unique expression or highlight a particular meaning. In the example "deafening silence," the juxtaposition of "deafening" (which implies loudness) with "silence" (which implies the absence of sound) creates an intriguing phrase that conveys a powerful sense of a silence that is so intense it feels overwhelming, despite being silent. This device is often used to express complex emotions or situations in a concise manner, allowing readers to understand the depth or irony of the situation more succinctly.

In contrast, a paradox presents a statement that appears contradictory but may contain an underlying truth, while an allusion is a reference to another text or event, and a simile is a comparison between two unlike things using "like" or "as." Each of these literary devices serves distinct purposes in writing and communication but does not align with the definition provided in the question concerning contradictory terms.