Which of the following refers to words and phrases that appeal to the five senses?

The correct answer is imagery. Imagery refers to the use of descriptive language that engages the five senses—sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. This technique allows readers to vividly experience a scene or concept by creating mental images that evoke sensory responses. Writers employ imagery to enhance their writing, making it more immersive and relatable by allowing the audience to visualize or feel the environment, emotions, or actions being described.

Simile, while related to imagery, specifically involves comparing two different things using "like" or "as." It creates a connection but does not inherently engage the senses directly in the way imagery does.

Symbolism involves using symbols—objects, characters, or colors—to represent larger ideas or concepts, which is more abstract and does not focus on sensory details.

Theme refers to the central idea or underlying message of a piece of writing, which is more about the intellectual or conceptual takeaway rather than engaging the senses.

Thus, imagery stands out as the term that best captures the essence of appealing to sensory experiences, making it the correct choice.