Rebus

Quick meaning: Rebus is a noun meaning An arrangement of pictures, symbols, or words representing phrases or words, especially as a word puzzle.

Meaning

An arrangement of pictures, symbols, or words representing phrases or words, especially as a word puzzle.

More Meanings

1. (linguistics) A pictographic component of a compound character (e.g. sinograph) used to hint at the pronunciation of the compound.
2. (specifically, heraldry) An arrangement of pictures on a coat of arms which suggests the name of the person to whom it belongs.
3. To represent (a phrase or word) as a rebus.
4. To apply a rebus to (something).
5. (crosswording) A type of crossword puzzle in which some squares contain entire words, or symbols representing words, instead of single letters.

Example Sentences

Instead of spelling out card suits, for example, perhaps the constructor inserted a "rebus," or picture icon for clubs, hearts, spades, or diamonds in one answer box.

I back him at a Rebus or a Charade against the best Rhymer in the Kingdom—has your Ladyship heard the Epigram he wrote last week on Lady Frizzle's Feather catching Fire—

He [John Morton] was a learned man, and had a fair library, (rebussed with more in text and tun under it,) partly remaining in the possession of the late earl of Arundel.

The prior [Will Bolton] used to come out here to hunt in summer and recreate himself, and his rebus—a barrel or tun shot through with a crossbow bolt—is set into the garden walls.

Word Forms

• rebuses
• rebusses
• rebi
• rebusing
• rebussing
• rebused
• rebussed

Synonyms for rebus

Depending on context, synonyms include dingbat.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include omnibus, inane, riddling, riddle, riddlemeree, unriddling.

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