lyricism

American  

[lir-uh-siz-uhm] / ˈlɪr əˌsɪz əm /

noun

1. lyric character or style, as in poetry.

2. lyric feeling; enthusiasm, especially when unrestrained or exaggerated.

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lyricism British  

/ ˈlɪrɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. the quality or style of lyric poetry

2. emotional or enthusiastic outpouring

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Other Word Forms

• nonlyricism noun

Etymology

Origin of lyricism

First recorded in 1750–60; lyric + -ism

Explanation

Lyricism is the quality of tunefulness or melody that a piece of music has. A choir director carefully considers the lyricism of the songs she chooses for a big concert. Something with lyricism is lyrical, or singable. This noun also captures the emotional nature of certain works of art, particularly poetry and other writing: "The poem's lyricism makes it possible for the reader to acutely experience those feelings of loss and despair." The related word lyric means "the words to a song," but originally meant "a lyric poem," from the Greek lyrikos, "singing to the lyre."

Example Sentences

The girl band first made a mark with their 2022 debut single, Cardboard Box, which showcased their smooth group harmonies and sassy lyricism.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Much of Ayewa’s lyricism throughout the album is also concerned with what lies ahead.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

Upon her death in 2017, Mr. Wonder credited her with sharpening his lyricism and keeping him at Motown—thus contradicting Mr. Robinson’s claim that Mr. Wonder’s contract was safe all along.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

He pioneered the Afrobeat genre alongside drummer Tony Allen, blending West African rhythms, jazz, funk, highlife, extended improvisation, call-and-response vocals and politically charged lyricism.

From BBC • Jan. 29, 2026

She read the Qur’an and was struck by its power and lyricism.

From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers