magic realism

noun

1

usually magical realism : fiction associated especially with Latin America that uses fantastic or mythic elements to heighten a realistic story

2

: painting in a meticulously realistic style of imaginary or fantastic scenes or images

magic realist noun

Examples of magic realism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The result is a kind of dream memoir, including subtle elements of magic realism, chiefly in the form of a wise and mysterious tiger cat who leads Marina to truths no human can help her find. — Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 26 June 2026

There’s a magic realism element. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 14 Jan. 2026

Reviewing the film some critics talk of its magic realism. — John Hopewell, Variety, 24 Nov. 2025

Her work is extremely diverse, covering aspects of magic realism, suspense, historical fiction, mythology, and fantasy. — Literary Hub, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for magic realism

• idealism
• surrealism
• neorealism