impressionism
UK: ɪmˈpreʃ.ən.ɪ.zəm | US: ɪmˈpreʃ.ən.ɪ.zəm
n. A 19th-century art movement characterized by small, visible brushstrokes and an emphasis on depicting light and its changing qualities.
n. A style or technique in music, literature, or other arts that seeks to capture fleeting impressions rather than precise details.
The term "impressionism" originates from the French word impressionnisme, derived from Claude Monet's painting Impression, Sunrise (1874). The root "impress" traces back to Latin imprimere ("to press into"), reflecting the movement's focus on capturing fleeting sensory "impressions" rather than rigid realism. The suffix "-ism" denotes it as an artistic doctrine, formalizing its rejection of traditional techniques.
Monet and Renoir were pioneers of impressionism.
The composer’s use of dissonance reflects impressionism in music.
Her poetry leans toward impressionism, evoking moods rather than narratives.
Critics initially dismissed impressionism as unfinished or amateurish.
The exhibit contrasts realism with impressionism.