'Rhetoric' definitions:

Definition of 'rhetoric'

(from WordNet)
noun
Using language effectively to please or persuade
noun
High-flown style; excessive use of verbal ornamentation; "the grandiosity of his prose"; "an excessive ornateness of language" [syn: grandiosity, magniloquence, ornateness, grandiloquence, rhetoric]
noun
Loud and confused and empty talk; "mere rhetoric" [syn: palaver, hot air, empty words, empty talk, rhetoric]
noun
Study of the technique and rules for using language effectively (especially in public speaking)

Definition of 'Rhetoric'

From: GCIDE
  • Rhetoric \Rhet"o*ric\, n. [F. rh['e]torique, L. rhetorica, Gr. ???? (sc. ???), fr. ??? rhetorical, oratorical, fr. ??? orator, rhetorician; perhaps akin to E. word; cf. ??? to say.]
  • 1. The art of composition; especially, elegant composition in prose. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Oratory; the art of speaking with propriety, elegance, and force. --Locke. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. Hence, artificial eloquence; fine language or declamation without conviction or earnest feeling. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. Fig. : The power of persuasion or attraction; that which allures or charms. [1913 Webster]
  • Sweet, silent rhetoric of persuading eyes. --Daniel. [1913 Webster]

Synonyms of 'rhetoric'

From: Moby Thesaurus