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Meaning of repoussoir in English:

repoussoir

Pronunciation /rɪˈpuːswɑː/

noun

  • 1Art
    An object in the foreground of a composition (typically to one side), which serves to lead the viewer's eye into the principal scene or towards the principal figure, emphasizing this and increasing the sense of depth.

  • 2In extended use and figurative.

Origin

Mid 19th century (in an earlier sense). From French repoussoir from repousser + -oir.