The Open Dictionary

rhetoric

noun

UK/ˈret.ᵊr.ɪk/
US/ˈret̬.ɚ.ɪk/

Definitions of rhetoric noun

  1. Uncountable

    the art of using language effectively and persuasively in speech or writing to influence an audience.

    • Politicians often employ rhetoric to garner support from voters.

    • The speech was full of ornate rhetoric but lacked substance.

    • The leader's rhetoric inspired the masses and unified them.

  2. Uncountablelanguagespecialized

    the study and art of using language effectively; the principles of rhetoric.

  3. Uncountabledisapproving

    language that is designed to be impressive or persuasive, but is insincere or lacking in meaning.

    • His promises sounded great, but they were just empty rhetoric without concrete action.

    • The report was filled with bombastic rhetoric but offered no solutions.

    • She used flowery rhetoric to mask her inexperience.