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Definition of rhetorical

rhetorical

/rɪˈtɔːr.ɪ.kəl/
rhe · tor · i · cal
Adverb:rhetorically
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rhetorical Lexical Profile

rhetorical Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Asked strictly in order to produce an effect or to make a statement rather than to elicit a reply or information (of a question).

Example

"You do not need to answer; it was purely a rhetorical question."

2

Relating to or concerned with the art of rhetoric and effective or persuasive speaking or writing.

Example

"The professor analyzed the rhetorical devices used in the historic inaugural address."

3

Expressed in an exaggerated, overblown, or artificial style calculationally intended to impress or persuade rather than to inform sincerely.

Example

"Voters quickly grew tired of the candidate's hollow, rhetorical promises."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for rhetorical

• Nearby Words

rhesus
rhesus macaque
rhetoric
rhetorical
rhetorically
rhetorician
rheum

Word Origin & Etymology

From Late Middle English, via Latin rhetoricus, from Ancient Greek rhētorikos ('oratorical'), derived from rhētōr ('public speaker' or 'teacher of eloquence').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Rhetorical. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/rhetorical
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