Definition of realismnext
as in naturalism
realistic depiction in art and literature using ordinary people as models, even when depicting the greatest of saints, Caravaggio brought an unforgiving realism to painting that was unprecedented

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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of realism Watch Justified on Hulu Wynonna Earp has garnered a cult following for its blend of neo-Western storytelling and magical realism. Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026 The country’s tragic 21st-century travails provide much of the fodder for the couple’s drama in director Cyril Aris’ moving film, including whether to stay or emigrate, with touches of magical realism and whimsy providing levity. David Faris, TheWeek, 6 July 2026 The Chinese challengers Seedance, Kling and Alibaba’s HappyHorse have rapidly closed the gap on cinematic realism and have upstaged their American rivals by undercutting them on cost. Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026 Taking inspiration regarding size – but not tone – from the large-scale epic works of the battle from the 19th century, Eric von Schmidt in 1976 painted the Seventh Cavalry’s defeat with brutal realism. New York Times, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for realism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for realism
Noun
  • Tarr mixes professional and amateur performers, yet demands the same unrehearsed naturalism from each.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 20 June 2026
  • Da Costa realizes that journey with unforced naturalism, as if the camera just happened to be there to capture it.
    Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • Whatever your druthers—irony or verisimilitude—there’s probably a poster for you among the 240+ for sale.
    Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 25 June 2026
  • The rubber missiles aren't just there for verisimilitude.
    David Szondy May 24, New Atlas, 24 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Realism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/realism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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