rhetorical UK /ɹɪˈtɒɹ.ɪ.kəl/US /ɹɪˈtɔɹɪkəl/adjective 3noun 1forms 1 adjective3 •Part of or similar to rhetoric, the use of language as a means to persuade. •Not earnest, or presented only for the purpose of an argument. •Asked for dramatic or persuasive effect, rather than to get an answer.'"Are you an idiot? Actually, don't answer that, it was rhetorical." noun1 •(old-fashioned) A study or exercise in rhetoric. formsrhetoricals
