Vocabulary Spotlight

Denouement

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: The final resolution or outcome of the plot in a story, play, or complex situation.

“The novel’s denouement tied up all the loose ends and answered lingering questions.”

Pronunciation

[dey-noo-mahn]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Resolution
Conclusion
Outcome
Finale
Climax

Antonyms

Beginning
Introduction
Start
Opening
Prologue

Related Words

Closure (noun)
Coda (noun)
Epilogue (noun)

Word Origin

“Denouement” is derived from the French word “dénouer,” meaning “to untie.” It entered English in the 18th century, describing the final resolution in a narrative plot.

Word Family

Noun: Denouement – The outcome or final resolution of a complex situation or plot.

Verb: Denouement (in original French) – To untie or resolve.

Mnemonics

Think of “denouement” as “Dissolution Of Every Nuance Of Underlying Mystery Ends Now Throughout.”

This mnemonic connects “denouement” with the idea of resolving or concluding a story or situation.

Industry-specific Usage

Literature

In literature, the denouement is the final part of a story that reveals the outcome or resolves the main conflicts.

Theater

In theater, the denouement follows the climax, where the plot’s conflicts are unraveled and resolved.

Film

In film, the denouement provides closure by revealing the fates of characters and the resolution of story arcs.

In Context

Denouement is commonly used to describe the resolution of events in a narrative, typically following the climax and bringing the story to a close.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which of the following is a synonym for “denouement”?

Resolution
Prologue
Introduction
Opening

“Resolution” is correct, as it is the final part of a narrative where conflicts are resolved.

2. Fill in the blank: The mystery novel’s _______ was surprising yet satisfying, tying up all loose ends.

prologue
denouement
beginning
introduction

“Denouement” is correct, as it refers to the final resolution in a story.

3. Which of the following best describes the purpose of a denouement?

To introduce the characters
To set up the setting
To resolve a narrative’s main conflicts
To create suspense

“To resolve a narrative’s main conflicts” is correct, as the denouement provides closure by settling the story’s conflicts.