picturesque

/ˌpɪkt͡ʃəˈɹɛsk/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Resembling or worthy of a picture or painting; having the qualities of a picture or painting; pleasingly beautiful.

Adjective

Examples

We looked down onto a beautiful, picturesque sunset over the ocean.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Strikingly graphic or vivid; having striking and vivid imagery.

Adjective

Examples

picturesque language

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “picturesque” mean?

Resembling or worthy of a picture or painting; having the qualities of a picture or painting; pleasingly beautiful.

Is “picturesque” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.