allusion

noun

Definition of allusionnext
as in reference
a statement that refers to something without mentioning it directly The lyrics contain biblical allusions.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of allusion Ari Aster’s most polarizing film to date features allusions to both the Odyssey and another film influenced by Homer’s epic, The Wizard of Oz (1939). — Britt Hayes, Entertainment Weekly, 18 July 2026 Much of that album, plus many of the other older songs Dylan performed Monday, makes allusions to classical antiquity, literature and religion to tackle themes of redemption and divine judgment. — Jared Kaufman, Twin Cities, 7 July 2026 Come for the sisterhood, stay for allusions to William Faulkner and Donna Tartt. — Hamilton Cain, Time, 7 July 2026 Even more than usual, critics and Dylanologists scrutinized Modern Times for references and allusions, finding words and melodies paraphrased from the works of Muddy Waters, Bing Crosby, and the Roman poet Ovid. — Al Shipley, SPIN, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for allusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for allusion
  1. reference
  2. implication
Noun
  • Hsu’s office aimed to avoid both early on by refusing to name a particular style, reference familiar restaurant archetypes, or let the project become thematic.
    — Alexis Benveniste, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2026
  • All federal government references to the lake on agency maps, contracts and other documents must also reflect the renaming.
    — Joey Garrison, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of reference
Noun
  • The International Atomic Energy Agency launched its ATLAS initiative on August 26 to encourage dialogue and improve technical understanding of innovative nuclear applications and their safety and regulatory implications.
    — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The genius of work divided loses none of its luster when the Chinese are participating in the work, not to mention the peaceful implications of market goods easily crossing borders.
    — John Tamny, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of implication

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alluring
allusion
allusions
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Cite this Entry

“Allusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/allusion. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on allusion

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about allusion

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