imagery
IM-ij-ree
/ˈɪm.ɪ.dʒər.i/
Visually descriptive or figurative language, especially in a literary work, appealing to physical senses.
Not limited to sight; encompasses visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, and gustatory descriptions.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'imago' (likeness or representation), which gave rise to Old French 'imagerye' (carved figures or mental pictures).
Word relationships
- description: 'Description' is general detail; 'imagery' specifically paints sensory pictures in the mind.
- abstraction: Abstraction relies on intangible ideas rather than sensory imagery.
Commonly confused with
- symbolism: Imagery evokes sensory experience; symbolism represents an abstract idea.
Word family
- image (noun): A mental picture or representation.
Collocations
- vivid imagery
- sensory imagery
- poetic imagery
- rich imagery
Example sentences
- "The poem's vivid imagery evokes the crisp air and golden sunlight of early autumn." Poetry review
Memory hook
IMAGERY creates IMAGES inside your imagination. Sensory pictures in words.
When not to use
Do not restrict imagery to physical photos or illustrations; it refers to mental sensory pictures.
Fun facts
- Olfactory imagery (smell) is known psychologically to trigger the strongest emotional memories.
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.