Rhetoric is the art of persuasive speaking or writing. It involves using language effectively and persuasively in spoken or written form to convince or influence an audience. Rhetoric can be found in speeches, essays, marketing, and everyday conversations. It often involves techniques such as emotional appeal, use of figurative language, and argumentation to sway the listener's or reader's opinion.
The word "rhetoric" comes from the Greek word "rhetorikē," which means "the art of speech." It is derived from "rhetor," meaning "speaker" or "orator." The term has been in use since the late 14th century, originally referring to the study of eloquence and effective communication.