Hyperbole
Hyperbole
Hyperbole ( ; adj. hyperbolic ) is the use of exaggeration as a rhetorical device or figure of speech. In rhetoric, it is also sometimes known as auxesis) (literally 'growth'). In poetry and oratory, it emphasizes, evokes strong feelings, and creates strong impressions. As a figure of speech, it is usually not meant to be taken literally.
Etymology
'Hyperbole' is derived from the Ancient Greek: ὑπερβολή huperbolḗ by way of Latin. The word is composed from ὑπέρ hupér 'above, beyond' and βάλλω bállō 'throw'.
Etymology
Unlike most English words beginning with hyper-, it is stressed on the second syllable. The first known use is in the 15th century.
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