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

Kilmeade’s apology may dampen calls for his removal, but critics say the incident underscores the need for more responsible rhetoric from media figures with large platforms.

From Salon

As rapidly as the grizzly video of his killing circulated online, many across the political landscape worked to sanitize his legacy of inflammatory rhetoric without interrogating his actual arguments.

From Salon

Inflicting violence on someone you think is spreading harmful rhetoric, "will only turn them into a hero", he added.

From BBC

He also worries that rhetoric may lead to violence.

From BBC

Those are techniques that make their rhetoric appealing and shareable in far-right online spaces.

From Salon

Related Words

• hyperbole 
• oratory