Graffito Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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graffito
[grəˈfiːtoʊ ]
Definition
art form
A graffito is a single or simple form of graffiti, often created as an artistic expression or social commentary. It can be found in public spaces, typically on walls or other surfaces, and may convey a variety of messages ranging from political statements to personal expressions.
Synonyms
artwork, graffiti, inscription, marker.
Examples of usage
- The artist left a beautiful graffito on the abandoned building.
- Many graffiti artists start out by creating a simple graffito.
- The city has seen a rise in culture surrounding graffito as street art.
Translations
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Origin of 'graffito'
The term 'graffito' comes from the Italian word 'graffito', which is a derivative of the Greek word 'grapho', meaning 'to write'. It first entered English usage in the late 19th century, primarily used in archeological contexts to refer to inscriptions found on ancient walls. In modern contexts, 'graffito' refers specifically to a single form of graffiti rather than a plethora of artistic expressions typically associated with the broader term. As street art gained popularity in the late 20th century, the term evolved to encompass various forms of urban expression, including tagging and large-scale murals, while maintaining its original link to the act of writing or inscribing.