1 illusionism | Definition of illusionism
Logo
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

illusionism

noun
il·​lu·​sion·​ism | \ i-ˈlĂŒ-zhə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce illusionism (audio) \

Definition of illusionism

: the use of artistic techniques (such as perspective or shading) to create the illusion of reality especially in a work of art

Examples of illusionism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 James Havard’s abstract illusionism paintings from the ’80s are displayed next to one of Sayre Gomez‘s enigmatic acrylic pieces from 2016. — Andrea Alonso, Los Angeles Magazine, "Fact and Fiction Collide Inside an Exhibit Inspired by a “Forgotten” L.A. Legend—and Beverly Hills Cop," 12 June 2018 Each vignette floats, isolated against a slick sea of black, drawing a parallel between the illusionism of stage magic and the tricks of commercial photography. — The New Yorker, "Sarah Charlesworth," 31 Mar. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'illusionism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of illusionism

1911, in the meaning defined above

Keep scrolling for more

More from Merriam-Webster on illusionism

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with illusionism

WORD OF THE DAY

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!