caricature
KAH-rih-kuh-choor
/ˈkær.ɪ.kə.tʃʊər/
A representation of a person or thing in which certain striking characteristics are exaggerated to create a comic or grotesque effect.
Focuses on intentional distortion for satire, humor, or political critique.
The story behind the word. Borrowed from Italian 'caricatura', from 'caricare' meaning 'to load, charge, or exaggerate'. A caricature is literally a portrait 'loaded' with extra emphasis on distinct features.
Word relationships
- parody: 'Parody' usually imitates an entire work or style rather than exaggerating an individual's traits.
- lampoon: 'Lampoon' refers specifically to a harsh satirical attack in writing or art.
- portrait: A portrait strives for accurate and faithful representation.
Commonly confused with
- stereotype: A caricature exaggerates specific individual physical/behavioral traits; a stereotype generalizes group traits.
Word family
- caricaturist (noun): An artist who draws caricatures.
- caricatured (verb): Exaggerated for comedic effect (past tense).
Collocations
- grotesque caricature
- cruel caricature
- political caricature
- reduce to a caricature
Example sentences
- "The political cartoonist reduced the prime minister to a grotesque caricature with an oversized nose." Political Satire
- "Rather than developing nuanced characters, the playwright relied on flat caricatures for quick laughs." Literary Review
Memory hook
CARICATURE = CARGO LOAD. A character LOADED with exaggerated features. Drawing loaded with exaggerated traits.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a 'portrait', which aims for accurate representation.
Fun facts
- Italian artists Annibale and Agostino Carracci are credited with inventing caricature drawings in the late 16th century as a studio game.
Related words
Also appears in
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