Kitschy: meaning, definitions and examples
๐จ
kitschy
[ หkษชtสi ]
art style
Kitschy refers to art, objects, or decor that is considered to be in poor taste or overly sentimental, often because of its mass production and superficiality. The term is often associated with things that are gaudy or cheap but have a certain charm or appeal due to their exaggerated nature. While originally a negative descriptor, it has been embraced by some as a form of irony or nostalgia. Kitschy items are often found in thrift stores or flea markets, appealing to those who appreciate their retro or unconventional aesthetic.
Synonyms
campy, cheesy, sentimental, tacky, vulgar.
Examples of usage
- Her living room is filled with kitschy decorations.
- The movie was criticized for its kitschy special effects.
- He collects kitschy souvenirs from his travels.
Translations
Translations of the word "kitschy" in other languages:
๐ต๐น kitsch
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคฟเค
๐ฉ๐ช kitsch
๐ฎ๐ฉ kitsch
๐บ๐ฆ ะบััั
๐ต๐ฑ kicz
๐ฏ๐ต ใญใใ
๐ซ๐ท kitsch
๐ช๐ธ kitsch
๐น๐ท kitsch
๐ฐ๐ท ํค์น
๐ธ๐ฆ ููุชุด
๐จ๐ฟ kitsch
๐ธ๐ฐ kitsch
๐จ๐ณ ๅบธไฟ
๐ธ๐ฎ kitsch
๐ฎ๐ธ kitsch
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบะธัั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแฉแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ kitsch
๐ฒ๐ฝ kitsch
Etymology
The word 'kitschy' originates from the German word 'kitsch', which means elegant or of poor taste. It is believed to have first appeared in the 1920s in the art scene, describing art that is overly sentimental or commercialized. The term gained traction in the 1960s when critics began using it to identify and label works that were considered to be tasteless or ostentatious. Over time, kitsch has evolved to encompass a wide range of cultural artifacts, from retro designs to mass-produced souvenir trinkets. The use of 'kitschy' reflects a mixture of disdain and affection, revealing how tastes can change and how certain styles can become nostalgic or appreciated in a different light.