Definition

Noun: A philippic is a formal speech or piece of writing that is a bitter, passionate, and lengthy verbal attack or denunciation against someone or something. It is characterized by its harsh criticism, invective, and often angry tone.

Usage

A philippic is used to describe a specific type of rhetorical attack. It is a formal term, often used in historical, political, or literary contexts to label a tirade or harangue that is particularly fierce and condemnatory.

Examples

• The senator delivered a furious philippic against the new tax policy, accusing its supporters of betraying the public trust.
• Her article was more than a critique; it was a scathing philippic aimed at the entire leadership of the organization.
• The critic's review of the film degenerated into a personal philippic against the director.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term originates from the orations of the Athenian orator Demosthenes, who delivered speeches (the ) denouncing King Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC. The Roman orator Cicero later adopted the term for his own speeches attacking Mark Antony.
• Figurative Use: While traditionally a spoken address, the term can be applied figuratively to any lengthy written condemnation, such as a blog post, editorial, or open letter, that matches the tone and intensity of an oral philippic.

Variants and Related Words

• Philippic is the standard noun form. There is no direct adjectival form (like "philippical") in common modern usage, though it is occasionally seen in older texts.

Synonyms

• Diatribe: A forceful and bitter verbal attack.
• Tirade: A long, angry speech of criticism or accusation.
• Harangue: A lengthy and aggressive speech.
• Invective: Insulting, abusive, or highly critical language.
• Denunciation: The public condemnation of someone or something.

Antonyms

• Panegyric: A public speech or published text in praise of someone or something.
• Eulogy: A speech or piece of writing that praises someone, typically someone who has just died.
• Encomium: A speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly.
• Acclamation: Loud and enthusiastic praise.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To deliver/launch a philippic: This is the standard collocation for giving such a speech.
  • The union leader launched into a philippic against management's latest offer.

Noun

1. a speech of violent denunciation