# wax lyrical

**Pronunciation:** /wæks ˈlɪrɪkəl/ · WAKS LIR-i-kuhl

**CEFR level:** C1

**Part of speech:** idiom

## Meaning

To speak about something with great enthusiasm and in an elaborate, expressive way, often using poetic or flowery language. It implies a sudden or sustained outpouring of praise or admiration, typically in a conversational or written context.

## Examples

- He waxed lyrical about the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, describing every loch and mountain in vivid detail.
- The professor waxed lyrical on the subject of Renaissance art, captivating the entire lecture hall.
- She waxed lyrical about her new job, praising the team and the creative freedom it offered.

## Synonyms

- enthuse
- rave
- gush
- rhapsodize
- eulogize

## Antonyms

- criticize
- disparage
- condemn

## Common patterns

- wax lyrical about [something] — to speak enthusiastically about a specific topic — She waxed lyrical about the new art exhibition.
- wax lyrical on [something] — to speak at length and enthusiastically on a subject — He waxed lyrical on the virtues of organic farming.
- wax lyrical over [something] — to express great admiration for something — The critics waxed lyrical over the film's cinematography.

## Collocations

- wax lyrical about — The travel blogger waxed lyrical about the hidden beaches of Thailand.
- wax lyrical on — The historian waxed lyrical on the fall of the Roman Empire.
- wax lyrical over — They waxed lyrical over the chef's signature dish.

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