Definition of RHETORIC

rhetoric

Plural: rhetorics

Noun

  • The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing.
  • using language effectively to please or persuade
  • high-flown style; excessive use of verbal ornamentation
  • loud and confused and empty talk
    • "mere rhetoric"
  • study of the technique and rules for using language effectively (especially in public speaking)
  • The art of using language, especially public speaking, as a means to persuade.
  • Meaningless language with an exaggerated style intended to impress.

Adj

  • Synonym of rhetorical.

Examples

  • His opponent’s claim that ’QI’ wasn’t a word was pure rhetoric, easily dismissed.
  • It’s only so much rhetoric.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English rethorik, from Latin rēthoricus, rhētoricus, from Ancient Greek ῥητορῐκός (rhētorĭkós).

Synonyms

empty talk, empty words, grandiloquence, grandiosity, hot air, magniloquence, ornateness, palaver, rhetorical, speechcraft, wordcraft

Scrabble Score: 13

rhetoric: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
rhetoric: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
rhetoric: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 13

rhetoric: valid Words With Friends Word