Mannerism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mannerism
[หmรฆnษหrษชzษm ]
Definition
artistic style
Mannerism refers to a style in art and architecture that emerged in the late Renaissance period, characterized by exaggerated elegance, distortion of proportions, and a sense of artificiality. It is often seen as a reaction against the harmony and balance of the High Renaissance. Mannerist artists sought to express their own unique vision and creativity through their work.
Synonyms
affectation, exaggeration, stylization.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mannerism |
This word is used to describe a person's specific and habitual way of speaking or behaving that can be noticeable and characteristic only to them.
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| affectation |
This term often carries a negative connotation and describes behavior or speech that is unnatural or artificial, intended to impress others.
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| stylization |
This word is used to describe a deliberate and often artistic way of presenting something, often by emphasizing certain aspects or patterns.
|
| exaggeration |
Used when describing a statement or portrayal that makes something seem larger, better, or worse than it actually is.
|
Examples of usage
- His paintings show a clear influence of mannerism, with elongated figures and complex compositions.
- The architecture of the building reflects the mannerism of the time, with its intricate decorations and unusual shapes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art History
- In painting, mannerism is characterized by elongated figures and unnatural poses, seen in works by artists like El Greco and Michelangelo.
- This style emerged as a reaction against the balanced proportions and calmness of High Renaissance art.
- Mannerist artists aimed to express emotion and tension, creating a sense of drama that was new and exciting.
Psychology
- Mannerisms can be both conscious and unconscious, revealing a person's personality and emotional state.
- They often occur in social situations as a way to convey nervousness or comfort.
- Understanding someoneโs mannerisms can enhance communication and empathy in social interactions.
Pop Culture
- In movies and television, characters often have distinctive mannerisms that help define their personality and make them memorable.
- Actors may consciously adopt mannerisms to portray their characters more effectively, making audiences connect with them.
- Iconic figures in pop culture, like comedians or musicians, often develop unique mannerisms that become part of their branding.
Linguistics
- In speech, mannerisms can include specific phrases, speech patterns, or body language that are habitual for a person.
- Some mannerisms in communication can signify different social styles, such as assertiveness or introversion.
- Linguistic mannerisms can vary widely across cultures and regions, making them a fascinating study in human interaction.
Origin of 'mannerism'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'mannerism' comes from the Italian word 'maniera,' which means 'manner' or 'style.'
- Originally, it referred to a style of art that exaggerated human gestures and expressions during the late Renaissance.
- The term began to be used in English in the 17th century, highlighting its longstanding impact on art and culture.
The term 'mannerism' originated from the Italian word 'manierismo', which means 'style' or 'manner'. Mannerism developed in the 16th century as a reaction to the classical ideals of the Renaissance. Artists and architects of the time sought to break away from the strict rules of proportion and symmetry, instead emphasizing their own personal style and expression. Mannerism was a transitional period between the Renaissance and the Baroque, influencing the development of art and architecture for centuries to come.
See also: manners, unmannerly.