RHETORIC - Definition & Meaning for Kids
Meaning 1
Part of speech: Noun
using language effectively to please or persuade
Categories: Expressive style, Style
Meaning 2
Part of speech: Noun
study of the technique and rules for using language effectively (especially in public speaking)
Categories: Literary study
Synonyms
Ornateness, Palaver, Empty words, Empty talk, Hot air
🌱 Word Origin (Etymology)
The word "rhetoric" comes from Ancient Greek ῥητορική. It started in Latin rhētorica. Then it appeared in Old French rhetorique. Later, people used it in Middle English rethorik. After that, it was Ancient Greek ῥητορῐκός. Over time, it became Latin rhētoricus. Finally, it reached Middle English rethorik.
🧩 Fun Fact
A word passing through this many languages survived because it named something universally important.