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Pastoral: meaning, definitions and examples

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pastoral

 

[ ˈpæs.tər.əl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

life

relating to the countryside or rural life, especially in a romanticized or idealized way. Pertaining to the work of a pastor.

Synonyms

countryside, rural, rustic

Examples of usage

  • They moved to a pastoral village to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • The pastoral scenes in the painting captured the beauty of rural life.
Context #2 | Noun

literature

a work of literature, art, or music that portrays rural life or the countryside in an idealized way.

Synonyms

bucolic, georgic, idyll

Examples of usage

  • The poet's latest collection is filled with pastorals celebrating the beauty of nature.
  • The painting was a pastoral depicting a peaceful village scene.

Word origin

The word 'pastoral' originates from the Latin word 'pastor' meaning 'shepherd'. It was first used in English in the early 16th century to refer to literary works that depicted rural life. Over time, the term expanded to include a broader sense of anything related to the countryside or pastoral settings. Today, 'pastoral' is commonly used in literature, art, and music to evoke a sense of tranquility and simplicity associated with rural life.

See also: pastoralist, pastorate.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,771 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.