chiaroscuro

noun/kiˌɑrəˈskjʊroʊ/

Frequency rank: #19,616 most common English word

Meaning

The use of strong contrasts between light and dark in a work of art to give the impression of depth and volume.

Illustration for the English word “chiaroscuro”

Example sentence

The painter used chiaroscuro to create a dramatic contrast between light and shadow in the portrait.

Synonyms & related words

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