# evocative

/ɪˈvɑkətɪv/ (US) · /ɪvˈɒkətˌɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/evocative
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

making you think of or feel a strong memory, image, or emotion. It describes something that brings a clear picture to your mind.

For teachers: bringing strong images, memories, or feelings to mind. Often used to describe sensory experiences like smells, sounds, or artistic works that trigger a powerful emotional response.

## Examples

- The old song was very evocative of my childhood.
- The author's evocative descriptions of the seaside made me feel like I was actually standing on the beach.
- The museum's latest exhibition uses evocative lighting and ambient soundscapes to transport visitors back to the bustling streets of Victorian London.

## Usage notes

- Commonly followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate the specific memory or feeling being triggered.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.