Eloquent
Etymology
From Latin "eloquens", the present participle of "eloqui" (to speak out), from "e-" (out) and "loqui" (to speak). To be eloquent is, at root, to speak fully out — to bring what is inside into powerful, complete expression.
adjective · /EL-uh-kwunt/
Fluent and persuasive in speech or writing, and moving to hear.
What it names
Language that not only communicates clearly but moves — expression with force and grace, not mere correctness.
Example
Her eyes were eloquent even when she said nothing; the whole room understood her answer.
Related idea
Eloquent speech moves and persuades; merely being articulate means expressing thoughts clearly and correctly — one can be perfectly articulate and utterly unmoving, but never eloquent without stirring the listener.
See also