Main Entry: chiar·oscu·ro

Pronunciation: \-ˈskyu̇r-(ˌ)ō, -ˈsku̇r-\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural -ros

Etymology: Italian, from chiaro clear, light + oscuro obscure, dark

Date: 1686

1 : pictorial representation in terms of light and shade without regard to color
2 a : the arrangement or treatment of light and dark parts in a pictorial work of art b : the interplay or contrast of dissimilar qualities (as of mood or character)
3 : a 16th century woodcut technique involving the use of several blocks to print different tones of the same color; also : a print made by this technique
4 : the interplay of light and shadow on or as if on a surface
5 : the quality of being veiled or partly in shadow