# pictorial

/pɪkˈtɔɹiəɫ/ (US) · /pɪktˈɔːɹɪəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pictorial
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

using pictures or drawings to show information or tell a story. You use this when something is visual rather than written in words.

For teachers: relating to, expressed in, or consisting of pictures. Often used to describe representations that rely on visual imagery rather than text or abstract symbols.

## Examples

- The book provides a pictorial history of the city.
- The museum's new exhibit offers a pictorial record of how the landscape has changed over the last century.
- While the report contains extensive data, the pictorial representation of the statistics helps the board members grasp the trends more intuitively.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun.

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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.