Which literary term refers to vivid descriptive language that engages the senses?

The term that refers to vivid descriptive language that engages the senses is imagery. Imagery is a literary device that paints pictures in the reader's mind by appealing to the five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. This allows the reader to create a mental image and experience the text more fully. For instance, when an author describes a scene using detailed descriptions of colors, sounds, or textures, they are employing imagery to evoke emotions and create a more immersive experience for the reader.

Other choices encompass different literary concepts: alliteration involves the repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely placed words, which can add a musical quality but does not primarily focus on sensory details. Symbolism refers to the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, communicating deeper meanings beyond the literal level of the text. Plot, on the other hand, is the sequence of events in a narrative, focusing on the storyline rather than sensory experience. Thus, imagery stands out as the term that specifically engages the senses through descriptive language.