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
Explore M-W
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: before 12th century
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
TROPE Defined for English Language Learners
trope
playDefinition of trope for English Language Learners
-
: a word, phrase, or image used in a new and different way in order to create an artistic effect
Learn More about trope
-
See words that rhyme with trope 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
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up trope? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!