Figure of Speech
Epithet
From Greek epitheton: attributed. Homeric epithets were compositional aids in oral tradition; later poets use epithets decoratively or ironically.
Definition
An adjective or phrase expressing a defining characteristic of a person or thing, often formulaic in epic.
Example
Homer's 'rosy-fingered Dawn', 'swift-footed Achilles', 'wine-dark sea' — repeated epithets aid oral composition.