Campiest: meaning, definitions and examples

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campiest

 

[ ˈkæm.pi.ɪst ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

style, entertainment

The term 'campiest' refers to something that is characterized by exaggerated, extravagant, or ludicrous elements that are intended to be amusing or entertaining. It is often used in the context of art, film, or performance that intentionally embraces a sense of irony, kitsch, or over-the-top aesthetics. This style celebrates the absurd and often creates a playful distance from reality. In discussions about cultural trends, something considered 'campy' may be appreciated for its humor while still being perceived as lacking in sincerity.

Synonyms

exaggerated, kitsch, outlandish, quirky, tacky.

Examples of usage

  • The campiest performance I've ever seen!
  • She loves campy horror movies.
  • That outfit is so campy, it's perfect for the theme party.
  • The show is filled with campy dialogues and silly situations.

Translations

Translations of the word "campiest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 o mais exagerado

🇮🇳 सबसे कैम्पी

🇩🇪 der campigste

🇮🇩 yang paling kampy

🇺🇦 найбільш кампійний

🇵🇱 najbardziej campowy

🇯🇵 キャンピーニャの

🇫🇷 le plus campy

🇪🇸 el más campy

🇹🇷 en kamp olan

🇰🇷 가장 캠프적인

🇸🇦 الأكثر غريبًا

🇨🇿 nejvíce campový

🇸🇰 najviac campový

🇨🇳 最具营地感的

🇸🇮 najbolj kampast

🇮🇸 mest campí

🇰🇿 ең кампи

🇬🇪 ყველაზე კემპური

🇦🇿 ən kamp

🇲🇽 el más campy

Etymology

The word 'camp' derives from the French verb 'camper', which means 'to take up a position' or 'to display'. It originally described a style that emerged in the late 19th century among certain segments of the gay subculture, where there was an inclination to use irony and exaggeration to express disdain for normalcy. By the 1960s, 'camp' was popularized within the arts, particularly within film and theater, before evolving into broader cultural contexts. It became a way for creators and audiences to subvert conventional expectations, particularly in film genres like horror and musicals. The superlative 'campiest' denotes not just the embrace of this aesthetic, but the pinnacle of its characteristics—extremes of excess, parody, and humor, often creating a space for both critique and celebration.