figuration

noun

fig·​u·​ra·​tion ˌfi-g(y)ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: form, outline

2

: the act or process of creating or providing a figure

3

: an act or instance of representation in figures and shapes

cubism was explained as a synthesis of colored figurations of objects

—Janet Flanner

4

: ornamentation of a musical passage by using decorative and usually repetitive figures

Examples of figuration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And in the finale, Heyward played up the contrast between Lee’s mechanistic churn and Bryant’s sinuous figuration. —Michael Andor Brodeur, Washington Post, 16 June 2024

Gap Linen-Cotton Halter Vest, $34 (Save $36) Alternatively, this Gap pick has a halter neckline and back-baring figuration that’s a dream for those who like to feel sunshine and develop their tan. —Alyssa Grabinski, Peoplemag, 6 June 2024

After years as an abstract painter Guston returned to figuration in the 1960s. —Walker Mimms, New York Times, 4 June 2024

Image Image Today, in our era of figuration and socially conscious painting, Stella’s 60-year devotion to abstract art might sound academic or even antediluvian. —Deborah Solomon, New York Times, 5 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English figuracioun, borrowed from Latin figūrātiōn-, figūrātiō "process of forming, shape, representation," from figūrāre "to shape, make a likeness of, represent" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at figure entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1