Which literary device is primarily used to create imagery through sound?

Onomatopoeia is the literary device primarily used to create imagery through sound. It refers to words that phonetically imitate, resemble, or suggest the sound that they describe. Examples include words like "buzz," "clang," and "sizzle," which provide readers with a sensory experience that enhances the vividness of a description. By incorporating these auditory elements, onomatopoeia engages the reader's imagination, allowing them to hear what is happening in the narrative, which deepens their engagement with the text.

In contrast, symbolism involves using symbols to represent ideas or concepts, which doesn't specifically utilize sound to evoke imagery. Metaphors create comparisons between unrelated subjects to suggest similarities but do not focus on sound. Hyperbole, on the other hand, is an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally, and while it can create vivid images, it does not specifically pertain to sound. Thus, onomatopoeia stands out as the device designed to evoke auditory imagery effectively.