# scenic

/ˈsinɪk/ (US) · /sˈiːnɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scenic
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. beautiful views

adjective · CEFR B1

having beautiful natural views that are pleasant to look at.

For teachers: characterised by beautiful or impressive natural scenery; picturesque.

- We took the scenic route through the mountains instead of the fast highway.
- The train journey offers a scenic transition from the industrial outskirts to the lush, rolling hills of the countryside.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'the scenic route' to mean a longer but more beautiful path.

### 2. theatre scenery

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

relating to the painted backgrounds or decorations used on a theatre stage.

For teachers: pertaining to the stage scenery or visual representation of a setting in a theatrical production.

- The play was famous for its amazing scenic effects and lighting.
- The production's scenic design was praised for its minimalist approach, using only light and shadow to suggest a vast forest.

Usage: Usually precedes the noun it modifies, such as 'scenic design' or 'scenic artist'.

### 3. a scenic artist

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal · Technical

a person who designs or paints the backgrounds for a play or film.

For teachers: an individual employed to design or paint scenery for theatrical or cinematic productions.

- He worked as a scenic on several big Hollywood movies.
- After years of working as a scenic in regional theatre, she was finally hired for a major Broadway production.

## Examples

- We took the scenic route through the mountains.
- The train ride offers a scenic view of the coastline, making it a popular choice for weekend travelers.
- While the highway is faster, the scenic coastal road provides a more immersive experience of the region's rugged geography and historic lighthouses.

---

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.