What term refers to an exaggeration used for emphasis or effect?

The term that refers to an exaggeration used for emphasis or effect is hyperbole. This literary device is intentionally exaggerated statements or claims that are not meant to be taken literally, but serve to create strong impressions or convey strong feelings. For example, saying "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" illustrates hyperbole as it emphasizes the speaker's hunger dramatically, rather than indicating a literal desire to consume an entire horse. Hyperbole is commonly used in everyday language, literature, and persuasive writing to elicit strong emotional responses or to make a point more impactful.