english word · 2026-05-31
Anagnorisis
noun
Meaning
The exact moment in a story or life when a character makes a critical discovery or moves from ignorance to knowledge. It represents a profound shift in perspective or a sudden realization of one's true nature or situation.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek, meaning 'recognition'.
Examples
"The detective stared at the photograph, his eyes widening in a moment of sharp anagnorisis as he realized the killer was his own brother."
"She experienced a quiet anagnorisis while walking through her childhood home, finally understanding why her mother had chosen to leave."
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