Chiaroscuro \Chia`ro*scu"ro\, Chiaro-oscuro \Chi*a"ro-os*cu"ro\, n. [It., clear dark.] (a) The arrangement of light and dark parts in a work of art, such as a drawing or painting, whether in monochrome or in color. (b) The art or practice of so arranging the light and dark parts as to produce a harmonious effect. Cf. {Clair-obscur}.