synopsis

[si-nop-sis]

noun

plural

synopses 

1. a brief or condensed statement giving a general view of some subject.

2. a compendium of heads or short paragraphs giving a view of the whole.

3. a brief summary of the plot of a novel, motion picture, play, etc.

synopsis

/ sɪˈnɒpsɪs /

noun

1. a condensation or brief review of a subject; summary

Word History and Origins

Origin of synopsis¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Late Latin, from Greek sýnopsis, equivalent to syn- syn- + op- (suppletive stem of horân “to see”; autopsy ) + -sis -sis

Word History and Origins

Origin of synopsis¹

C17: via Late Latin from Greek sunopsis, from _syn- + opsis view

Synonym Study

See summary.

Example Sentences

“What ensues is beyond what either of them imagined: Murder! Possession! A wild and radical cultural movement! And outlaw lovers in a wild and combustible romance!” according to the film’s official synopsis.

From Los Angeles Times

It shows how the couple faced "a monumental battle, both on a professional and personal level" to defy his health problems to move home and to stage the final gig, the official synopsis said.

From BBC

A synopsis by the trust, which released its latest findings in May, said Los Angeles “has one of the most challenged big-city park systems in America.”

From Los Angeles Times

The synopsis for “F1” gives off serious “Top Gun: Maverick” energy.

From Los Angeles Times

The event synopsis says the duo and their guests will be discussing a shared passion for literature and chat about books they have "loved and loathed".

From BBC

Related Words

• recap 
• rundown