A vivid literary description of a work of visual art; a poem or passage written about a painting, sculpture, or other artwork.
From Greek 'ekphrasis' (description), from 'ek' (out) + 'phrazein' (to point out/explain). Homer's description of Achilles' shield in the Iliad is the most famous ancient example.
Writing SO vividly about a painting that readers can SEE it! Homer described Achilles' shield in such detail that blacksmiths have tried to MAKE it for centuries! When words paint pictures of pictures — that's ekphrasis! 🖼ï¸ðŸ“
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.