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purple prose

noun

writing that calls attention to itself because of its obvious use of certain effects, as exaggerated sentiment or pathos, especially in an attempt to enlist or manipulate the reader's sympathies.

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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2012.
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Link To purple prose

American Heritage

Cultural Dictionary

purple prose definition

Writing full of ornate or flowery language. Ornate, flowery speech can also be referred to as purple prose.

The American Heritage® New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition
Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Matching Quote

"Even Lust the Master of a hardned Face,
Blushes if thou beest in the place,
To darkness' Curtains he retires,
In Sympathizing Night he rowls his smoaky Fires.

When, Goddess, thou liftst up thy wakened Head,
Out of the Mornings purple bed,
Thy Quire of Birds about thee play,
And all the joyful world salutes the rising day."

-Abraham Cowley

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