Allusion
noun /əˈluː.ʒən/ — An indirect reference to another work, person, or event.
Definition
An indirect or passing reference to something — a person, event, text, or place — without full explanation, relying on the reader's or listener's prior knowledge to complete the meaning. Allusion is the literary technique of the assumed shared library.
Beyond the definition
Allusion rewards the reader who recognizes it — the reference deepens meaning, creates resonance, and confers a small pleasure of recognition. It also excludes those who don't share the reference.
Origin & history
From Latin 'allusio' (a playing with, a reference to); from 'alludere' (to play with, to jest about); from 'ad-' (to) + 'ludere' (to play). Playing toward something.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
When Toni Morrison alludes to the Bible, she assumes readers will feel the weight of what she doesn't spell out.
An allusion is only successful when the reference is shared — and reveals its exclusions when it is not.
The film's final scene was pure allusion — five different references in one image, legible at every level from none to all.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Allusion” when the meaning fits your context: An indirect or passing reference to something — a person, event, text, or place — without full explanation, relying on the reader's or listener's prior knowledge to complete the meaning. Allusion is the literary technique of the assumed shared library.
Synonyms
reference, indirect mention, hint, suggestion
Antonyms
direct statement, quotation, explicit reference
Related words
Allusion vs illusion
An allusion is an indirect reference to an idea or work. An illusion is a deceptive appearance or false perception of reality.
Questions about this word
What does "Allusion" mean?
Allusion is noun meaning: An indirect reference to another work, person, or event.. An indirect or passing reference to something — a person, event, text, or place — without full explanation, relying on the reader's or listener's prior knowledge to complete the meaning. Allusion is the literary technique of the assumed shared library.
Where does the word "Allusion" come from?
From Latin 'allusio' (a playing with, a reference to); from 'alludere' (to play with, to jest about); from 'ad-' (to) + 'ludere' (to play). Playing toward something.