trope
playSimple Definition of trope
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: a word, phrase, or image used in a new and different way in order to create an artistic effect
Full Definition of trope
1a : a word or expression used in a figurative sense : figure of speechb : a common or overused theme or device : cliché <the usual horror movie tropes>
2 : a phrase or verse added as an embellishment or interpolation to the sung parts of the Mass in the Middle Ages
Examples of trope in a sentence
<a screenplay that reads like a catalog of mystery-thriller tropes>
Origin and Etymology of trope
Latin tropus, from Greek tropos turn, way, manner, style, trope, from trepein to turn
First Known Use: 1533
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
Learn More about trope
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for trope Nglish: Translation of trope for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of trope for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about trope
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