(pronounced ZHAHN-ruh)

This word’s most precise definition is that of a realistic painting depicting scenes from everyday life. As defined a little less narrowly, it describes a particular category of creative pursuit (music, literature, dance, film, art, design, etc.), which is characterized by a specific style, form, or content. In its most broad interpretation, this word doubles for the words kind, type, or sort. The latter two definitions are most commonly used, but we mention the first because it is used in the art and antique world.

Example: That genre of architecture had always turned her off – it was too stark, too unwelcoming, and downright dangerous if one had little ones running around.