magic realism

noun

1
usually magical realism : fiction associated especially with Latin America that uses fantastic or mythic elements to heighten a realistic story
2
: painting in a meticulously realistic style of imaginary or fantastic scenes or images
magic realist noun

Examples of magic realism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Reviewing the film some critics talk of its magic realism. — John Hopewell, Variety, 24 Nov. 2025 There’s a magic realism element. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 14 Jan. 2026 The touch of magic realism comes from the ghost in the factory who starts influencing what’s being read by the reader, which includes books as well as newspaper articles. — Richard Guzman, Daily News, 26 Feb. 2025 Thornton injects a childlike sense of wonder with literal glimmers of light, magic realism making its way into this stark, severe environment. — Ella Kemp, IndieWire, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for magic realism

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of magic realism was in 1933

Rhymes for magic realism

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Browse Nearby Words

magico-religious
magic realism
magic square
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Cite this Entry

“Magic realism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magic%20realism. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on magic realism

Nglish: Translation of magic realism for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about magic realism

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