— picturesquely , adv. — picturesqueness , n.
/pik'cheuh resk"/ , adj.
1. visually charming or quaint, as if resembling or suitable for a painting: a picturesque fishing village.
2. (of writing, speech, etc.) strikingly graphic or vivid; creating detailed mental images: a picturesque description of the Brazilian jungle.
3. having pleasing or interesting qualities; strikingly effective in appearance: a picturesque hat.
[ 1695-1705; pittoresque pittoresco ( pittor ( e ) PAINTER + -esco -ESQUE), with assimilation to PICTURE ]
Syn. 2. PICTURESQUE, GRAPHIC, VIVID apply to descriptions that produce a strong, especially a visual, impression. PICTURESQUE is a less precise term than the other two. A PICTURESQUE account, though striking and interesting, may be inaccurate or may reflect personal ideas: He called the landscape picturesque. A GRAPHIC account is more objective and factual: it produces a clear, definite impression, and carries conviction. A VIVID account is told with liveliness and intenseness; the description is so interesting, or even exciting, that the reader or hearer may be emotionally stirred.