Definitions

1. adjective

Of or relating to a metalepsis, especially in literary criticism; involving a sudden, often disorienting, shift in level of discourse or reference.

“The novel’s use of metaleptic narrative techniques adds complexity to its exploration of identity.”

2. noun

A metalepsis, especially in literary criticism.

“The critic identified the story’s use of metalepsis as a key feature of its postmodern style.”

3. noun

A sudden, often disorienting, shift in level of discourse or reference.

“The film’s metaleptic ending left many viewers confused and trying to rewatch it.”

4. verb

To shift suddenly and often disorientingly from one level of discourse or reference to another.

“The writer tried to avoid metaleptic transitions in her narrative to keep the story flowing smoothly.”