Rhetorical Definition
rĭ-tôrĭ-kəl, -tŏr-
adjective
Of, having the nature of, or according to rhetoric.
Webster's New World
Using or characterized by mere rhetoric, or artificial eloquence; showy and elaborate in style.
Webster's New World
Used for persuasive effect.
A speech punctuated by rhetorical pauses.
American Heritage
Part of or similar to rhetoric, which is the use of language as a means to persuade.
A rhetorical question, for example, is one used merely to make a point, with no response expected.
Wiktionary
Not earnest, or presented only for the purpose of an argument.
Wiktionary
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Origin of Rhetorical
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From Latin rhÄ“toricus, from Ancient Greek ῥητορικός (rhÄ“torikos, “concerning public speaking").
From Wiktionary
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