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Chintzy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ต
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chintzy

[หˆสงษชn.tsi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

quality description

Chintzy refers to something that is cheap, gaudy, or of inferior quality. The term often describes items that appear to be flashy or overly decorated but lack real substance or value. This word can encompass anything from clothing to decor that seems manufactured or mass-produced without attention to detail. Essentially, chintzy items are often viewed as unattractive or low class due to their tackiness and low-cost materials.

Synonyms

cheap, grotesque, shoddy, tacky.

Examples of usage

  • The chintzy decorations made the room feel cheap.
  • He wore a chintzy suit to the wedding that looked out of place.
  • The gift shop was filled with chintzy souvenirs.
  • She avoided chintzy furniture for her upscale living room.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • In modern slang, calling something 'chintzy' can reflect a negative value judgment on fashion or decor.
  • The term is often used in the world of consumer goods to describe products that look appealing but are poorly made.
  • Chintzy can also describe attitudes; someone with a chintzy mindset may be unwilling to spend money on quality.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, characters may use 'chintzy' to mock something pretentious that turns out to be cheap.
  • The term has appeared in various sitcoms, often used humorously to describe low-budget productions.
  • Chintzy merchandise is a frequent trope in satire, poking fun at mass-produced, low-quality items.

Psychology

  • People often perceive 'chintzy' items as lacking value, which can affect their emotional attachment to the product.
  • The contrast between appearance and quality can trigger feelings of disappointment or betrayal when expectations aren't met.
  • Associating something as 'chintzy' may influence social status, as people often judge others based on their possessions.

Origin of 'chintzy'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the fabric 'chintz', used for making decorative items in the 18th century.
  • Chintz was first imported from India to Europe, gaining popularity due to its colorful patterns.
  • The soft, sometimes shiny fabric was often used for curtains and upholstery, but over time, it became associated with cheap imitations.

The word 'chintzy' originated in the 1960s and is derived from 'chintz', which itself comes from the Hindi word 'chint', meaning a painted or printed calico cloth. Originally, chintz referred to colorful, printed cotton fabric that was often used for drapes and upholstery. As time went on, the term began to take on a more negative connotation, describing items that were overly ornate or cheaply made. The transition from describing fabric to a broader term encompassing poor quality and gaudiness reflects cultural shifts in consumer attitudes, where the appreciation for craftsmanship and aesthetic value became more pronounced. By the mid-20th century, 'chintzy' had firmly established itself in the English language as a descriptor for anything that was considered insubstantial, unsophisticated, or lacking in genuine quality.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,757, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.