Definition

This word describes a way of using a part of something to refer to the whole, or using the whole to refer to a part. For example, saying 'all hands on deck' means all people are needed, using 'hands' to represent the workers.

Example

In literature, the author used a synecdochical expression to convey deeper meaning.

Conversation

I was reading about language figures the other day.

Oh really? Did you come across anything interesting?

Yeah, I learned about synecdochical expressions, like using 'wheels' to refer to a car.

That's cool! It's fascinating how language works like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Synecdochical → It is formed from "synecdoche" (from Greek "synecdoche", meaning a figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa) and the suffix "-ical" (meaning pertaining to). The word "synecdochical" refers to something that pertains to or is characteristic of the use of synecdoche in language.

Memory Tip

Think of a part representing the whole — that's what synecdochical means, as it relates to the figure of speech where a part stands for the entire concept.

Visually Confused Words