pulchritude

American  

[puhl-kri-tood, -tyood] / ˈpʌl krɪˌtud, -ˌtyud /

noun

1. physical beauty; comeliness.

   Synonyms:

   allure, beauty

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pulchritude British  

/ ˈpʌlkrɪˌtjuːd /

noun

1. formal physical beauty

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Usage

What does pulchritude mean? Pulchritude means physical beauty or attractiveness. Pulchritude is a fancy (and outdated) way of talking about how someone or something is good-looking. It’s quite rare and, for that reason, usually used for humorous effect. The adjective form of pulchritude is pulchritudinous, meaning beautiful. Example: The makeup artist kept talking about the pulchritude of my epidermis, which I guess means I have nice skin.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• pulchritudinous
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of pulchritude

First recorded in 1450–1500; late Middle English, from Latin pulchritūdō “beauty,” equivalent to pulchri- (combining form of pulcher “beautiful”) + -tūdō noun suffix; see -tude

Explanation

If someone comments on the pulchritude of your face, you shouldn’t be offended. It may sound like quite the opposite, but pulchritude actually means “beauty.” Pulchritude is one of those words that is more often commented upon for its oddness than actually used in its intended meaning. Many people dislike the sound of this word or are surprised to find that it is a synonym of beauty. These days pulchritude is considered outdated and is usually only used in highly literary writing or, in more common writing, to achieve a witty effect.

Example Sentences

Why, at this moment celebrating body positivity and diversity, the natural pulchritude of all figures, do women continue to wrap wire around their breasts, hoisting them inches above their innate resting position?

From Washington Post • Mar. 9, 2022

The place of beauty in our lives is a profound subject, and Harmon offers a complex understanding that respects the hazardous yet life-enhancing power of physical pulchritude.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 13, 2019

Feminine pulchritude mattered to Balanchine; many of his dancers had the looks of the movie stars or models of their day.

From New York Times • May 31, 2018

Offering an appropriate example of plus-size pulchritude to heavier men, as well as to the fashion industry, required a candidate who seemed relatable, in Bart’s words.

From Seattle Times • May 13, 2016

He was waited upon by the head gaoler's daughter, a damsel of considerable pulchritude by the name of Caroline, who at first regarded him askance as a malefactor.

From A Bayard From Bengal Being some account of the Magnificent and Spanking Career of Chunder Bindabun Bhosh,... by Jabberjee, Hurry Bungsho