Definition & Meaning of "synecdoche"

What is "synecdoche"?

Synecdoche is a figure of speech where a part of something is used to represent the whole, or the whole is used to represent a part. It involves substituting a specific detail or aspect of something for the larger concept or vice versa. For example, saying "all hands on deck" uses "hands" to refer to the people on a ship. Similarly, referring to a car as "wheels" is using a part of the vehicle to represent the whole. Synecdoche helps to create vivid and concise expressions by highlighting specific features or elements.