Picturesque
/ˌpɪk.tʃəˈresk/noun
Visually attractive in a way that resembles a painting, especially because of unusual charm or beauty.
Did you know?The word entered English in the 18th century from Italian and became central to the Romantic-era search for scenery that looked composed like art.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*peig-
“To cut, mark, or decorate—an ancient root associated with creating visible marks.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
poikilos
“Variegated, many-colored, or elaborately decorated.”
Classical Latin
Latin
pingere
“To paint, embroider, or represent with colors.”
Classical Latin
Latin
pictor
“Painter; an artist who paints.”
16th Century
Italian
pittoresco
“Painterly; in the manner of a painter.”
18th Century
English
picturesque
“Resembling a picture, especially in pleasing or striking scenery.”
Modern English
English
picturesque
“Charming or visually attractive like a painting.”