Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

synecdoche

Noun

sɪˈnɛkdəki

Definition

A figure of speech in which a part is used to represent the whole or vice versa.

Examples

“All hands on deck” (where ‘hands’ refers to sailors).
“The White House issued a statement” (where ‘the White House’ refers to the U.S. President and their administration).
“We need more boots on the ground” (where ‘boots’ refer to soldiers).

Meaning

Synecdoche is a rhetorical device where a part of something is used to refer to its entirety, or the whole is used to refer to a part. It helps in creating vivid imagery or conveying complex ideas succinctly.