rhetoric
- The art of effective or persuasive speaking and writing, especially through the use of figures of speech and other compositional techniques.
- Language used for impressive effect or political persuasion with little substance behind it; empty talk.
In a sentence
- The senator's rhetoric inspired the crowd, though critics questioned whether her promises were realistic.
- Students of classical rhetoric studied Aristotle's three modes of persuasion: ethos, pathos, and logos.
Usage note. In academic contexts 'rhetoric' is neutral or positive (the discipline of persuasion), but in everyday speech it often carries a negative connotation of hollow or manipulative language.
Where it comes from
English rhetoric · entered English 14th c.
From Old French 'rethorique,' from Latin 'rhetorica,' borrowed from Greek 'rhetorike (techne),' meaning 'the art of the orator,' from 'rhetor' (orator, teacher of oratory). The Greek root relates to 'rhema' (that which is spoken) and 'rhein' (to say). It entered English in the 14th century.