Figuration: meaning, definitions and examples

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figuration

 

[ ˌfɪɡjʊˈreɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

artistic expression

The act of forming or shaping something into a particular form or figure, especially in a creative or artistic manner. It can refer to the process of creating sculptures, paintings, or other visual art forms.

Synonyms

depiction, rendering, representation

Examples of usage

  • Her figuration of the human body in her paintings is both realistic and abstract.
  • The artist's figuration of emotions through color and form is captivating.
  • The figuration of animals in ancient cave paintings tells us about prehistoric cultures and beliefs.
Context #2 | Noun

musical composition

In music, figuration refers to the use of embellishments, ornaments, or decorative elements in a musical composition. It can enhance the melodic line or add complexity to the harmonic structure.

Synonyms

decoration, embellishment, ornamentation

Examples of usage

  • The pianist's use of figuration in the sonata added richness and depth to the piece.
  • The composer's figuration of the theme with trills and runs showcased their virtuosity.
  • Baroque music is known for its intricate figuration and ornamentation.

Translations

Translations of the word "figuration" in other languages:

🇵🇹 configuração

🇮🇳 विन्यास

🇩🇪 Konfiguration

🇮🇩 konfigurasi

🇺🇦 конфігурація

🇵🇱 konfiguracja

🇯🇵 構成 (こうせい)

🇫🇷 configuration

🇪🇸 configuración

🇹🇷 konfigürasyon

🇰🇷 구성 (구성)

🇸🇦 تكوين

🇨🇿 konfigurace

🇸🇰 konfigurácia

🇨🇳 配置 (pèizhì)

🇸🇮 konfiguracija

🇮🇸 stilling

🇰🇿 конфигурация

🇬🇪 კონფიგურაცია

🇦🇿 konfiqurasiya

🇲🇽 configuración

Etymology

The word 'figuration' originates from the Latin word 'figuratio', which means a shaping or forming. It has been used in artistic contexts for centuries to describe the act of creating visual representations or sculptures. In the realm of music, figuration has been a key element in compositions from various periods, adding depth and interest to melodic and harmonic structures.

See also: disfigure, figurative, figures, figurine, figurines, prefigure, transfiguration.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,929, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.