Is there a proper term to use for when an author paints a picture with their words?

Answer 1

Imagery OR descriptive mojo

Answer 2

Quite simply, it's called descriptive writing.

"Definition: The primary purpose of descriptive writing is to describe a person, place, or event so that the topic can be clearly seen in the reader’s mind. The writer must use vivid details that paint a picture for the reader.
PAINTING A PICTURE WITH WORDS – Describe in such detail that ….. describe so clearly that….. picture it in your mind…… recreate so vividly that…..
Elaborate use of sensory detail: sight(color, shape, size), smell, touch, sound,taste
Details which go beyond the general
Details which enable the reader to picture or relive what the writer is telling.
General characteristics of descriptive writing includes:
1. Vividly descriptive details – elaborate on sensory details including how does it look, sounds, feel, smell
2. Figurative language may be used – using words, phrases, symbols, similes metaphors and ideas such as personification in such a ways as to evoke mental images and sense impressions.
3. Showing, not telling – use vivid and precise adjectives, adverbs, and verbs when describing the topic."



P.S. Imagery isn't a bad answer; however, it's just one facet of descriptive writing

Answer 3

You could use a word that has visual connotations by saying that the author "portrays" or "depicts" or "illustrates" the scene. Beyond that, I think you need to be more specific about what sense you're after if you need something even more closely analagous to "paints a picture with words" -- because that phrase in and of itself may not be the most concise way of saying it, but it's pretty descriptive anyway.

Answer 4

Imagery

Answer 5

Imagery.

Answer 6

Descriptive vocabulary

Answer 7

description, story telling, lively art o writing

Answer 8

imagery

Answer 9

depiction or perhaps vividness