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chiaroscuro

kee-ar-uh-SKYOOR-oh

kiˌɑːrəˈskjʊəroʊ

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Syllable breakdown

chiaroscuro

Dictionary meaning

The dramatic use of strong contrasts between light and shadow in art.

History and origin

Italian, meaning 'light-dark'.

Examples

  • Caravaggio's chiaroscuro makes the figures emerge from darkness.

Common mispronunciations

chee-ar-oh-SKOOR-oh

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