Definition

A detailed description or commentary about a piece of art, often used in literature to convey the visual experience of the artwork.

Example

The poet's ekphrasis brought the painting to life with vivid imagery and emotion.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ekphrasis?

Yeah, it's when a piece of writing describes a work of art, right?

Exactly! I think it’s fascinating how words can bring a painting to life.

Totally! It adds a whole new layer to the experience of art.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ekphrasis → It is formed from "ek-" (meaning out) and "phrasis" (from Greek "phrazein", meaning to speak or describe). The term refers to a vivid description or commentary on a visual work of art, effectively bringing it to life through words.

Memory Tip

Imagine describing a piece of art 'out' ('ek-') in a way that 'speaks' ('phrasis') to the viewer, which is what ekphrasis means.

Visually Confused Words