plural chiaroscuros
Definition of chiaroscuro
1
: pictorial representation in terms of light and shade without regard to color
2a
: the arrangement or treatment of light and dark parts in a pictorial work of art
The artist uses chiaroscuro to create the perception of depth in a two-dimensional work.
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
a spotlight revealing a chiaroscuro of ridges and craters on a mountainside
5
: the quality of being veiled or partly in shadow
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for chiaroscuro
The first known use of chiaroscuro was in 1686
See more words from the same year