Lyrical
/ˈlɪrɪkəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsExpressing a poetical quality; especially expressing deep emotion or an artistic form.
/ˈlɪrɪkəl/
Expressing emotion in an imaginative and beautiful way.
The novel’s lyrical prose painted a vivid picture of the countryside.
💡 Simply: Think of a really beautiful song that makes you feel all the feels. 'Lyrical' is how we describe something that's like that—it's full of emotion and beauty, like a poem or a piece of music that touches your heart.
👶 For kids: When something is lyrical, it's like a song that makes you happy or sad or excited! It's full of pretty words.
More Examples
The movie score had a lyrical quality that enhanced the emotional impact.
She described the sunset in lyrical terms, comparing it to a painting.
The dancer's performance was graceful and lyrical, expressing a range of emotions.
How It's Used
"The poem's lyrical descriptions of nature captivated the audience."
"Her lyrical voice soared through the opera house."
Having the characteristics of lyric poetry, especially expressing emotions in a rhythmic and musical way.
/ˈlɪrɪkəl/
Having the form and qualities of a song or poem, especially one in a musical rhythm.
The author's writing style was lyrical, filled with vivid imagery and flowing sentences.
💡 Simply: Think of poems and songs, especially those that rhyme and have a nice flow. 'Lyrical' is about things that have that beautiful, song-like quality, even if they aren't a song!
👶 For kids: When something is lyrical, it's like a poem that's made of words that sound like music!
More Examples
The movie director used lyrical storytelling to create an emotional atmosphere.
Her lyrical storytelling captivated the audience.
The composer wrote lyrical melodies that became instantly recognizable.
How It's Used
"A lyrical ballad tells a story with a musical rhythm and rhyme."
"The songwriter's lyrical compositions often explore themes of love and loss."
Idioms & expressions
lyrical genius
A person with exceptional talent for writing or composing lyrics.
"The singer was recognized as a lyrical genius, whose songs resonated with audiences worldwide."
From Late Latin *lyricus*, from Greek *lurikos* 'of a lyre', from *lura* 'lyre'. Initially referring to poetry sung to a lyre, the meaning broadened to encompass emotional, expressive language.
The term 'lyrical' has historically been associated with poetry meant to be sung to the accompaniment of a lyre, a musical instrument. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass other forms of expressive language.