antonomasia (Meaning)

Webster

antonomasia (n.)

The use of some epithet or the name of some office, dignity, or the like, instead of the proper name of the person; as when his majesty is used for a king, or when, instead of Aristotle, we say, the philosopher; or, conversely, the use of a proper name instead of an appellative, as when a wise man is called a Solomon, or an eminent orator a Cicero.

Synonyms & Antonyms of antonomasia

No Synonyms and anytonyms found

antonomasia Sentence Examples

  1. The use of antonomasia, where a person is referred to by a characteristic or title, is a common literary device.
  2. In literature, antonomasia often involves substituting a proper name with a descriptive phrase, adding depth to character portrayal.
  3. William Shakespeare frequently employed antonomasia in his plays, such as when he referred to Macbeth as the "Scottish play."
  4. Using antonomasia, the author described the detective as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes due to his keen investigative skills.
  5. The antonomasia "the Bard" is often used to refer to William Shakespeare in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to English literature.
  6. In political discourse, antonomasia may be used to characterize a leader, such as "the Iron Lady" for Margaret Thatcher.
  7. The use of antonomasia allows writers to convey complex traits or qualities succinctly, creating memorable associations for readers.
  8. A classic example of antonomasia is calling someone a "Romeo" to denote a romantic and passionate individual.
  9. The novel employed antonomasia when introducing the protagonist as "the Last Knight," emphasizing his noble and chivalrous qualities.
  10. Antonomasia is a linguistic tool that aids in creating vivid imagery and evoking specific qualities or characteristics through alternative names or titles.

FAQs About the word antonomasia

The use of some epithet or the name of some office, dignity, or the like, instead of the proper name of the person; as when his majesty is used for a king, or w

No synonyms found.

No antonyms found.

The use of antonomasia, where a person is referred to by a characteristic or title, is a common literary device.

In literature, antonomasia often involves substituting a proper name with a descriptive phrase, adding depth to character portrayal.

William Shakespeare frequently employed antonomasia in his plays, such as when he referred to Macbeth as the "Scottish play."

Using antonomasia, the author described the detective as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes due to his keen investigative skills.