Definitions

1. adjective

resembling or characteristic of Émile Zola, especially in being naturalistic, detailed, and realistic in depiction.

“The film’s gritty, zolaesque portrayal of urban life was praised for its unflinching look at social issues.”

2. noun

something that is naturalistic, detailed, and realistic in depiction.

“The novelist’s zolaesque descriptions of Parisian life transported readers to the city’s bustling streets.”