1. a style of writing or literary work that emphasizes aesthetic beauty and elegance over practical content or moral instruction
Usage: often used in academic or critical contexts; sometimes carries a mildly pejorative connotation, suggesting superficiality

Examples

• The critic dismissed the novel as mere belletrism, lacking any serious social commentary.
• Her poetry was celebrated for its belletrism, with every word chosen for its musical quality.
• The magazine's focus on belletrism meant it published elegant essays rather than investigative journalism.
• Some scholars argue that belletrism has a place in literature alongside more purposeful writing.
• The author's belletrism was evident in the ornate prose and careful attention to style.