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Paparazzi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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paparazzi

[ˌpæpəˈrɑːtsi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

media attention

Paparazzi are photographers who pursue celebrities to capture candid photographs of their lives, often without the consent of the subject. They are known for their intrusive methods and dedication to getting exclusive images. The term is often associated with the sensationalism of the tabloid press.

Synonyms

camera operator, photographer, shutterbug.

Examples of usage

  • The paparazzi chased the celebrity down the street.
  • She tried to avoid the paparazzi by wearing a hat and sunglasses.
  • The presence of paparazzi can be overwhelming for public figures.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Paparazzi have become a fixture in modern media, especially with the rise of social media, where their photos can fetch high prices.
  • Celebrities often have a love-hate relationship with paparazzi, as they seek publicity but also value their privacy, leading to conflicts.

Legal Issues

  • In many countries, laws regarding privacy and harassment are evolving due to the aggressive tactics sometimes used by paparazzi.
  • Several lawsuits have been filed against paparazzi for invading personal spaces like homes or hospitals.

Impact on Mental Health

  • Constant scrutiny from paparazzi can contribute to mental health challenges for celebrities, including anxiety and depression.
  • The pressure to maintain an image can lead many famous individuals to take drastic measures for their mental wellness.

Photography Techniques

  • Paparazzi often employ long lenses to capture images without being too close to their subjects, maintaining a level of anonymity.
  • They need to be quick and stealthy, as many celebrities aim to avoid unwanted attention, making timing crucial for successful shots.

Origin of 'paparazzi'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'paparazzi' comes from the character Paparazzo in Federico Fellini's 1960 film 'La Dolce Vita.', a photographer who captures the lives of the rich and famous.
  • The word is derived from the Italian 'paparazzo,' originally a dialect word which possibly referred to a buzzing insect, symbolizing the constant buzzing around celebrities.

The word 'paparazzi' originates from the Italian 'paparazzo', which refers to a character in Federico Fellini's 1960 film 'La Dolce Vita'. The character was a photographer who pursued celebrities for sensational images. 'Paparazzo' itself is derived from 'paparazzo', a variation of the dialectal word 'papar', which means 'buzzing insect' in reference to the intrusive and persistent approach of these photographers. The term gained international fame and has since evolved into the plural 'paparazzi', reflecting the collective nature of their work. Over the years, the term has taken on broader connotations, often symbolizing the encroachment of media into the private lives of public figures.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,087 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.