Caricature Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ
caricature
[หkรฆrษชkษtjสษr ]
Definitions
funny drawing
A caricature is a funny drawing or representation of someone that exaggerates certain features for comic effect. It is often used to poke fun at well-known people or to make a political statement.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- His caricature was so exaggerated, with a huge nose and tiny eyes, that everyone burst out laughing.
- The artist created a caricature of the politician, emphasizing his prominent ears and oversized smile.
exaggerated imitation
Caricature can also refer to an exaggerated imitation or representation of someone's behavior, speech, or style, often used to criticize or make fun of them.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The comedian's caricature of the president's mannerisms was spot-on and had the audience in stitches.
- She delivered a brilliant caricature of her teacher, mimicking her voice and gestures perfectly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art
- Caricatures are often seen in political cartoons, vividly commenting on social issues through exaggerated depictions.
- Famous artists like Honorรฉ Daumier and Thomas Nast were known for their impactful caricature work during significant historical events.
- The art form combines humor and critique, allowing creators to convey messages that resonate with the public.
Psychology
- Caricatures use exaggeration of familiar facial traits to quickly convey recognition and humor, making them easily memorable.
- The brain processes exaggerated features more readily, which can enhance emotional responses and engagement with the artwork.
- This exaggeration technique is grounded in perceptual psychology, helping to simplify complex images into recognizable forms.
Pop Culture
- Animated shows like 'The Simpsons' widely use caricature to represent real-world figures, adding comedic value and social commentary.
- In films, caricatures often appear in scenes aiming for humor, contrasting characters in a playful manner.
- Social media platforms have spurred a resurgence in caricature art, with artists creating digital caricatures that go viral.
Literature
- Many classic literary characters are caricatures, employing exaggerated traits to symbolize broader human flaws or societal issues.
- Writers like Charles Dickens often used caricature to highlight the absurdities of his time, bringing humor to serious subjects.
- In novels and plays, caricature serves as a tool to criticize politics, culture, and human behavior through laughter.
Origin of 'caricature'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Italian 'caricatura', meaning 'to load' or 'to charge', referring to the exaggeration of features.
- It became popular in the English language around the 18th century, especially in political satire.
- The term initially referred to overcharged impressions in loans but gradually shifted to art.
The word 'caricature' originated in the mid-18th century from the Italian 'caricatura', which means 'loaded portrait'. Caricatures have a long history, dating back to Leonardo da Vinci's caricatures of grotesque heads. They gained popularity in the 19th century as a form of social and political satire.