Descriptive

/dɪˈskrɪp.tɪv/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
serving or seeking to describe; explanatory.
The descriptive analysis of the painting highlighted its use of color and form.
characterized by the use of detailed descriptions.
Her descriptive writing captivated readers with vivid imagery.
providing a clear picture or understanding of something.
The report included descriptive statistics that clearly illustrated the trends.
relating to the characteristics of something.
The descriptive elements of the essay helped clarify the author's main argument.
pertaining to or marked by description.
The descriptive labels on the exhibit gave context to each artwork presented.

Etymology

Late Latin 'descriptivus', from 'describere', meaning 'to describe'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

descriptive analysis
An examination of data that focuses on summary statistics and pattern identification.
descriptive language
Language that provides detailed imagery or evokes emotion and mental visuals.

Related Words

describe
To give an account of something in words.
description
A spoken or written representation of a person, object, or event.

Slang Meanings