picturesque
Americanadjective
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visually charming or quaint, as if resembling or suitable for a painting.
a picturesque fishing village.
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(of writing, speech, etc.) strikingly graphic or vivid; creating detailed mental images.
a picturesque description of the Brazilian jungle.
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having pleasing or interesting qualities; strikingly effective in appearance.
a picturesque hat.
adjective
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visually pleasing, esp in being striking or vivid
a picturesque view
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having a striking or colourful character, nature, etc
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(of language) graphic; vivid
Related Words
Picturesque, graphic, vivid apply to descriptions that produce a strong, especially a visual, impression. Picturesque is a less precise term than the other two. A picturesque account, though striking and interesting, may be inaccurate or may reflect personal ideas: He called the landscape picturesque. A graphic account is more objective and factual: it produces a clear, definite impression, and carries conviction. A vivid account is told with liveliness and intenseness; the description is so interesting, or even exciting, that the reader or hearer may be emotionally stirred.
Other Word Forms
- picturesquely adverb
- picturesqueness noun
- unpicturesque adjective
- unpicturesquely adverb
- unpicturesqueness noun
Etymology
Origin of picturesque
First recorded in 1695–1705; from French pittoresque, from Italian pittoresco ( pittor(e) painter 1 + -esco -esque ), with assimilation to picture
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In one of the living spaces, an artistic arched window showcases the beauty of the natural surroundings, providing a picturesque view of the property’s gardens.
From MarketWatch
South Korea is globally renowned for its beauty, from heartthrob idols and picturesque actresses to elaborate skin-care regimens and world-class plastic surgeons.
But Fastvold turns a singular strangeness into something so familiar and warm — a picturesque version of religious worship where anyone and everyone may find comfort in a community of voices, all singing the same song.
From Salon
Amsterdam’s canals may be gloriously picturesque, but try finding the elbow room to get a decent photo.
Los Angeles doesn’t have the most majestic skyline, but it’s so picturesque in that moment.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
