Which term refers to descriptive language that appeals to the senses?

Imagery is the term that refers to descriptive language that appeals to the senses, including sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. Writers use imagery to create vivid and evocative pictures in the reader's mind, allowing them to experience the text more fully. For example, using phrases that describe the smell of fresh bread or the sound of a rushing river helps establish a more immersive environment for the reader. This sensory appeal enhances emotional engagement and deepens the reader's understanding of the characters and settings.

The other terms in the question serve different purposes in literature. Tone refers to the author's attitude toward the subject or audience conveyed through word choice and style. Theme represents the underlying message or main idea of a literary work, while symbolism involves using symbols to represent larger concepts or ideas. Each of these terms contributes to the richness of a text but does not focus specifically on sensory description as imagery does.