rhetoric Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun using language effectively to please or persuade
  2. noun high-flown style; excessive use of verbal ornamentation
    grandiosity; grandiloquence; ornateness; magniloquence.
    • the grandiosity of his prose
    • an excessive ornateness of language
  3. noun loud and confused and empty talk
    palaver; empty talk; empty words; hot air.
    • mere rhetoric
  4. noun study of the technique and rules for using language effectively (especially in public speaking)

WordNet

Rhet"o*ric noun
Etymology
F. rhétorique, L. rhetorica, Gr. (sc. ), fr. rhetorical, oratorical, fr. orator, rhetorician; perhaps akin to E. word; cf. to say.
Definitions
  1. The art of composition; especially, elegant composition in prose.
  2. Oratory; the art of speaking with propriety, elegance, and force. Locke.
  3. Hence, artificial eloquence; fine language or declamation without conviction or earnest feeling.
  4. Fig. : The power of persuasion or attraction; that which allures or charms.
    Sweet, silent rhetoric of persuading eyes. Daniel.

Webster 1913