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diction

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The definition of diction is the style of speech, or the choice of words in speaking or writing.

(noun)

When you have a posh and formal way of speaking, this is an example of proper diction.
A choice to use poetic language in writing is an example of diction.

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See diction in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

manner of expression in words; choice of words; wording
manner of speaking or singing; enunciation

Origin: L dictio, a speaking (in LL, word) < pp. of dicere, to say, orig., point out in words < IE base *deik-, to point out > Gr deiknynai, to prove, Ger zeigen, to show, OE teon, to accuse, tæcan, teach

See diction in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

Choice and use of words in speech or writing.
Degree of clarity and distinctness of pronunciation in speech or singing; enunciation.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English diccion, a saying, word

Origin: , from Old French

Origin: , from Latin dictiō, dictiōn-, rhetorical delivery

Origin: , from dictus

Origin: , past participle of dīcere, to say, speak; see deik- in Indo-European roots

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Related Forms:

dicˈtion·al adjective

dicˈtion·al·ly adverb

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