Scenic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scenic

[ˈsiːnɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

beautiful natural views

providing or relating to views of impressive or beautiful natural scenery

Synonyms

breathtaking, panoramic, picturesque.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scenic

Use this word to describe a place that has beautiful natural scenery. It is often used for drives, routes, and places that are visually pleasing due to nature.

  • The scenic route along the coast is worth the extra time
  • We stopped at a scenic overlook to take some photos
picturesque

This word describes a place that is so charming and visually attractive that it could be the subject of a painting. It often suggests a quaint, idyllic quality.

  • The village was picturesque, with its cobblestone streets and traditional houses
  • They chose a picturesque spot by the lake for their picnic
breathtaking

This word is used to describe a view or scene that is exceptionally beautiful, so much so that it takes one's breath away. It implies a sense of awe and wonder.

  • The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking
  • Watching the sunset from the beach was a breathtaking experience
panoramic

Choose this word to emphasize a wide, expansive view. It is usually used when describing views that cover a large area, often in all directions.

  • The hotel room offered a panoramic view of the city skyline
  • We enjoyed the panoramic scenery from the observation deck

Examples of usage

  • The area is known for its scenic beauty.
  • We took a scenic drive along the coast.
Context #2 | Adjective

aesthetic appeal

visually appealing or picturesque

Synonyms

attractive, beautiful, charming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scenic

Used to describe a place with visually appealing natural landscapes, often related to tourism and nature.

  • The scenic route along the coastline offers breathtaking views.
  • We booked a hotel with a scenic view of the mountains.
beautiful

Describes something or someone that is aesthetically pleasing. Often used to denote high levels of beauty.

  • The sunset over the ocean was absolutely beautiful.
  • She wore a beautiful dress to the gala.
attractive

Generally used to describe anything that is pleasing to the senses, not limited to appearance, but can also refer to personality or features.

  • She has an attractive personality that draws people to her.
  • The city is attractive to tourists because of its vibrant nightlife.
charming

Used to describe something or someone that is pleasantly attractive, often in a cute or endearing way. Can be used for people, places, or even objects.

  • He has a charming smile that lights up the room.
  • The village is full of charming little houses.

Examples of usage

  • The hotel has a scenic rooftop terrace.
  • This painting captures the scenic beauty of the countryside.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Travel

  • Many national parks are famous for their scenic vistas, attracting millions of visitors who seek beautiful views of nature.
  • Scenic routes, like California's Pacific Coast Highway, are designed to showcase incredible landscapes and natural formations.
  • Photos of scenic locations are often used in travel advertising to entice tourists and convey the beauty of a destination.

Art

  • Scenic painting, a genre from the Renaissance period, captured breathtaking landscapes and views, influencing modern landscape art.
  • Artists like Claude Monet celebrated scenic beauty through Impressionism, focusing on the effects of light on nature.
  • The concept of 'scenic' has evolved to include not only visual beauty but also emotional resonance evoked by landscapes in art.

Psychology

  • Studies show exposure to scenic environments can reduce stress and enhance mood, contributing to overall well-being.
  • Nature therapy often utilizes scenic landscapes to help individuals connect with the outdoors, promoting mental health.
  • The aesthetic appreciation of scenic views can evoke feelings of awe and happiness, impacting cognitive functions positively.

Film and Media

  • In cinematography, 'scenic shots' are used to establish settings and convey emotions, enhancing storytelling.
  • Documentaries about nature often focus on scenic beauty to immerse viewers in the environment being depicted.
  • Film festivals celebrate works that showcase scenic cinematography, recognizing the artistic merit of visuals in storytelling.

Origin of 'scenic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'scenic' comes from the Greek word 'skēnē,' meaning scene or stage, which relates to how scenes are visually appealing.
  • It entered the English language in the early 19th century, initially used to describe theater backgrounds and later expanded to landscapes.
  • Scenic originally referred to visually striking elements on stage, eventually evolving to encompass landscapes and natural beauty.

The word 'scenic' originated from the Greek word 'skēnē', which means 'tent' or 'stage'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the background of a stage set, and eventually came to be associated with natural landscapes and views. The use of 'scenic' to describe beautiful or picturesque views dates back to the early 19th century.


See also: scene, scenery, scenes.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,494, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.