figuration
|fig-u-ra-tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌfɪɡjəˈreɪʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌfɪɡjʊəˈreɪʃ(ə)n/
forming or representing a figure/shape
Etymology
'figuration' originates from French, specifically the word 'figuration', where 'figuration' derived from Medieval Latin 'figuratio' and ultimately from Latin 'figura' meaning 'form, shape'.
'figuration' changed from the French word 'figuration', which came from Medieval Latin 'figuratio' (from Latin 'figura'), and eventually entered English as 'figuration' through Middle French and late Middle English usage.
Initially, it meant 'the act of forming or the arrangement of figures or shapes', but over time it has broadened to include 'representation or depiction' and specialized senses such as ornamental musical passages.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or process of forming figures or shapes; the process of shaping or modelling something into a recognizable form.
The figuration of the statue required months of careful modeling and adjustment.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a representation or depiction in figure or form; a way of expressing something symbolically or pictorially.
The painter's figuration of the landscape emphasized mood over photographic detail.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 3
in music, the ornamentation or rapid decorative passages of notes that surround or elaborate a principal melody (figured, decorative passagework).
The composer's score includes elaborate figuration in the right hand that decorates the main theme.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/09 09:55