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Cameo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cameo

[ˈkæmiˌoʊ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

acting

A brief appearance of a known actor in a movie or show, often as a special guest. Cameos are usually short and memorable, adding a fun element to the production.

Synonyms

guest appearance, special appearance, walk-on role.

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Word Description / Examples
cameo

A brief appearance by a famous person in a film or a play, often without any speaking lines. Often used when the appearance is by someone who is not usually an actor, or when the role is very small.

  • Stan Lee has a cameo in most of the Marvel movies
  • The director made a cameo as a street vendor in the film
guest appearance

When a notable or popular person makes a one-time or occasional appearance on a TV show, movie, or event. This term is often used for television shows where a well-known actor or celebrity appears in one episode.

  • The famous singer made a guest appearance on the popular TV series
  • The show had a special guest appearance by the renowned chef
special appearance

Highlighted presence of a significant person at an event or in a show, especially when their participation is emphasized as a special feature. It implies a certain level of importance or exclusivity.

  • The concert featured a special appearance by the legendary guitarist
  • The fundraiser had a special appearance by a former president
walk-on role

A very minor role in a play or film, often without speaking lines. This term is generally used more formally and suggests that the role is incidental, often occupied by an extra or a minor character.

  • She had a walk-on role as a nurse in the hospital scene
  • His walk-on role was as a background actor during the parade

Examples of usage

  • He made a hilarious cameo in the latest superhero movie.
  • The director's cameo was a pleasant surprise for the audience.
Context #2 | Noun

jewelry

A small, usually oval portrait in relief, typically on a background of a different color. Cameos are often made of materials like shell or stone.

Synonyms

engraved gem, relief carving.

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Word Description / Examples
cameo

An incidental yet memorable appearance, often by a well-known person, in a film, TV show, or other media.

  • The famous director made a brief cameo in his own movie
  • The musician's cameo in the series finale was a delightful surprise
engraved gem

A small gem carved with a design or inscription, often used in rings or as personal seals in ancient times.

  • The archaeologist discovered an engraved gem dating back to the Roman Empire
  • The museum exhibit featured several beautifully crafted engraved gems
relief carving

A type of sculpture where shapes are carved on a flat surface so that they stand out from the background, commonly used in architecture and art.

  • The ancient temple walls were adorned with intricate relief carvings
  • A magnificent relief carving depicted a historical battle scene

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful cameo brooch on her dress.
  • The necklace featured an intricate cameo of a woman's profile.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Many movies and shows include cameos as a fun surprise; for instance, Stan Lee made cameo appearances in nearly all Marvel films.
  • The term gained popularity in the 1960s and 70s as more directors began using unexpected guest appearances in films.

Art

  • In art, a cameo typically refers to a raised image or figure carved into a contrasting background, often made from materials like shell or stone.
  • Famous artists such as Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux have made cameo sculptures that are celebrated in art museums.

Film and Television

  • Cameos are often used as a way to pay homage to other films, with directors including favorite stars from earlier cinema.
  • They can serve as Easter eggs for fans, creating an engaging connection between different works.

Literature

  • In literature, a cameo appearance happens when a character from one story briefly appears in another, enriching the narrative.
  • Authors like J.K. Rowling have included cameos of famous characters to delight readers and create continuity.

Origin of 'cameo'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cameo' comes from the Italian 'cameo', which refers to a carved gem that has a portrait or design.
  • In the 19th century, it started to be used in the context of theatre and film to describe brief performances.

The term 'cameo' originated from the Italian word 'cammeo', which means a small raised relief portrait or image. Cameos have been used in jewelry and art for centuries, with ancient examples found in Greece and Rome. The cameo as a short appearance in a film or show became popular in the early 20th century, and it continues to be a well-loved element in entertainment.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,919, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.