Dictionary entry

Imagery

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Im″age‐ry (ĭm″ā̍j‐ry̆; 277), n. [OE. imagerie, F. imagerie.] 1. The work of one who makes images or visible representation of objects; imitation work; images in general, or in mass. “Painted imagery.” Shak.

In those oratories might you see

Rich carvings, portraitures, and imagery. Dryden.

2. Fig.: Unreal show; imitation; appearance.

What can thy imagery of sorrow mean? Prior.

3. The work of the imagination or fancy; false ideas; imaginary phantasms.

The imagery of a melancholic fancy. Atterbury.

4. Rhetorical decoration in writing or speaking; vivid descriptions presenting or suggesting images of sensible objects; figures in discourse.

I wish there may be in this poem any instance of good imagery. Dryden.