n.
Pronunciation: ik- ' spre-sh ə n
Function: noun
Date: 15th century
1 a : an act, process, or instance of representing in a medium (as words) : UTTERANCE <freedom of expression > b (1) : something that manifests, embodies, or symbolizes something else <this gift is an expression of my admiration for you> (2) : a significant word or phrase (3) : a mathematical or logical symbol or a meaningful combination of symbols (4) : the detectable effect of a gene also : EXPRESSIVITY 1
2 a : a mode, means, or use of significant representation or symbolism especially : felicitous or vivid indication or depiction of mood or sentiment <read the poem with expression > b (1) : the quality or fact of being expressive (2) : facial aspect or vocal intonation as indicative of feeling
3 : an act or product of pressing out
– ex · pres · sion · al \ - ' spresh-n ə l, - ' spre-sh ə -n ə l \ adjective