Epithet

An epithet is an artistic modifier that figuratively characterises an object or phenomenon, emphasising an essential or emotionally significant feature in it. Unlike a logical modifier, which merely indicates an objective property ("an iron door"), the epithet carries an evaluative, emotional or metaphorical colouring ("an iron will"). An epithet is most often expressed by an adjective, but also by an appositive noun, an adverb or a participle. A distinction is drawn between pictorial epithets, which specify a feature, and lyrical (evaluative) ones, which convey the author's attitude. A special variety is the permanent epithet of folklore. The epithet is one of the most widespread and ancient tropes, an inseparable means of artistic characterisation in the poetry and prose of all ages.