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rhetoric definition

rheto·ric (ret′ər ik)

noun

    1. the art of using words effectively in speaking or writing; esp., now, the art of prose composition
    2. skill in this
    3. a treatise or book on this
  2. artificial eloquence; language that is showy and elaborate but largely empty of clear ideas or sincere emotion

Etymology: ME rethorike < OFr or L: OFr rethorique < L rhetorica < Gr rhētorikē (technē), rhetorical (art) < rhētōr, orator: see rhetor

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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