Esque:Definition & Examples of How to Use It

Have you ever come across a word like “picturesque” or “Kafkaesque” and wondered about the small suffix “-esque”? It’s one of those amazing language tools that lends style and refinement to writing. In this post, we’ll go over the definition, history, and practical applications of “esque” and show you how to incorporate it into your vocabulary like an expert.

What is "Esque"?

“Esque” is a suffix added to the end of a word to imply likeness, style, or feature. It basically means “in the manner of” or “like.” For example, “picturesque” refers to something visually appealing, as if it belonged in a picture.

Origins and History of "Esque"

The suffix “esque” comes from the French word -esque, which has Italian and Latin roots. It was first used in English in the late 17th century, giving the words it modified a European flavor.

Its Role as a Suffix in Language

As a suffix, “esque” functions as an adjective generator. It takes a word or name and turns it into a descriptive phrase. For example, “Shakespeare” becomes “Shakespearean” or “Shakespeare-esque” to characterize something reminiscent of his work.Have you ever come across a word like “picturesque” or “Kafkaesque” and wondered about the small suffix “-esque”? It’s one of those amazing language tools that lends style and refinement to writing. In this post, we’ll go over the definition, history, and practical applications of “esque” and show you how to incorporate it into your vocabulary like an expert....Continue reading