lyricism

American  

[lir-uh-siz-uhm] / ˈlɪr əˌsɪz əm /

noun

1. lyric character or style, as in poetry.

2. lyric feeling; enthusiasm, especially when unrestrained or exaggerated.

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lyricism British  

/ ˈlɪrɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. the quality or style of lyric poetry

2. emotional or enthusiastic outpouring

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Other Word Forms

• nonlyricism noun

Etymology

Origin of lyricism

First recorded in 1750–60; lyric + -ism

Example Sentences

Thomas’s youth within a melodious family helped shape his ear for poetry, and the prose of his yuletide memoir also pulses with a pleasing lyricism.

From The Wall Street Journal

Nearly every track on the latest release signals transformation, in both its lyricism and its sonics.

From Los Angeles Times

Recognized for their hypnotic choreography, playful lyricism and fervent energy, the “Gnarly” singers went all out for dress rehearsal — involving an army of backup dancers and repeated blasts of confetti.

From Los Angeles Times

On the subject of lyricism, as may be deduced by now, it was a largely disappointing year for new musicals—but not for musical-theater performances.

From The Wall Street Journal

Inspired by Pink Floyd’s “The Wall,” Sonic Youth’s distortion, Black Sabbath’s symbolic lyricism and layered instrumentals, and surrealist artwork, “Mellon Collie” tested the Smashing Pumpkins’ limits as a band.

From Los Angeles Times