The poetic technique developed by and characteristic of the French Parnassian poets, emphasizing precise structural formality and strict emotional restraint. See "Parnassian".
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in The Times. From Parnassian + -ism.
Definition of Parnassianism in US English:
Parnassianism
(also Parnassienism)
nounpɑːˈnasɪənɪz(ə)m
The poetic technique developed by and characteristic of the French Parnassian poets, emphasizing precise structural formality and strict emotional restraint. See "Parnassian".
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in The Times. From Parnassian + -ism.