synopsis

noun

syn·​op·​sis sə-ˈnäp-səs 

plural synopses sə-ˈnäp-ˌsēz 

1

: a condensed statement or outline (as of a narrative or treatise) : abstract

2

: the abbreviated conjugation of a verb in one person only

Synonyms of synopsis

• summary

Examples of synopsis in a Sentence

I don't need to know every little plot twist; just give me a synopsis of the movie.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, based on the synopsis, those smiles are sure to fade over the course of this eight-episode limited series. —Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 3 Feb. 2026

Reports that this installment will cut off in the 1980s—with a possible sequel to follow—are unconfirmed, but the synopsis, trailer, and studio messaging suggest the film will not look beyond Jackson’s early solo career. —Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 2 Feb. 2026

To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before, according to the film's synopsis. —Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 27 Jan. 2026

An official synopsis has not yet been released. —Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 20 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, from Greek, literally, comprehensive view, from synopsesthai to be going to see together, from syn- + opsesthai to be going to see — more at optic

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for synopsis

• arabidopsis
• phalaenopsis

Kids Definition

synopsis

noun

syn·​op·​sis sə-ˈnäp-səs 

plural synopses -ˈnäp-ˌsēz 

: a brief statement or outline (as of a story)