Definition

A figure of speech where an absent or imaginary person is given the ability to speak or act, often used to create a dramatic effect.

Example

In her poem, she used prosopopoeia to give a voice to the wind, making it seem as if it were telling a story.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term prosopopoeia?

Yeah, I think it's about giving human traits to non-human things, right?

Exactly! It’s such a cool way to make stories more engaging.

For sure! I love when authors use prosopopoeia to bring objects to life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prosopopoeia → It is formed from "prosopon" (meaning face or person) and "poiein" (meaning to make or create). The word refers to the act of giving a face or personality to an abstract idea or inanimate object, often used in rhetoric to create vivid imagery.

Memory Tip

Think of 'giving a face' ('prosopon') to something abstract by 'making' it ('poiein') — that's how prosopopoeia brings ideas to life.

Visually Confused Words