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

The reports began introducing the rhetoric of climate change straight into the heart of the far right’s vocabulary.

From Salon

And Homan’s interview isn’t just rhetoric.

From Los Angeles Times

Some hoped he would follow through on his dovish campaign rhetoric, others thought he might escalate conflict in the Middle East.

From Salon

I will never get over the fact that his criminal convictions, hateful rhetoric, blatant sexism, despicable demonizing of fellow humans and trashing of democracy failed to turn more Americans away from him, but this should permanently end the tired and wrong notion that “we” are better than this.

From Salon

Jennifer Mercieca is a historian of American political rhetoric.

From Salon

Related Words

• hyperbole
• oratory