rhetoric

[ret-er-ik]

noun

1. (in writing or speech) the undue use of exaggeration or display; bombast.

2. the art or science of all specialized literary uses of language in prose or verse, including the figures of speech.

3. the study of the effective use of language.

4. the ability to use language effectively.

5. the art of prose in general as opposed to verse.

6. the art of making persuasive speeches; oratory.

7. (in classical oratory) the art of influencing the thought and conduct of an audience.

8. (in older use) a work on rhetoric.

rhetoric

/ ˈrɛtərɪk /

noun

1. the study of the technique of using language effectively

2. the art of using speech to persuade, influence, or please; oratory

3. excessive use of ornamentation and contrivance in spoken or written discourse; bombast

4. speech or discourse that pretends to significance but lacks true meaning

   all the politician says is mere rhetoric

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhetoric¹

First recorded in 1300–50; from Latin rhētorica, from Greek rhētorikḕ (téchnē) “rhetorical (art)”; replacing Middle English rethorik, from Medieval Latin rēthorica, Latin rhētorica, as above

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhetoric¹

C14: via Latin from Greek rhētorikē ( tekhnē ) (the art of) rhetoric, from rhētōr _rhetor

Example Sentences

Or to refusing Iranian films because of Ayatollah Khamenei’s rhetoric or Iranian funding of terrorists.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

“Enough lofty rhetoric on how to lift competitiveness, you know what must be done,” she said.

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In response to the rhetoric from Washington and the deployment of American warships, Maduro and his top lieutenants have assured their followers that Venezuela’s military is in a state of readiness.

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Again, this marks a distinct change in presidential rhetoric.

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“And if I’m being honest, there was probably a general rhetoric of ‘You’re just some actor who wants to have a go.’

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hyperbole 
• oratory