Caricature
(n) A picture, description, or imitation of a person or thing in which striking characteristics are exaggerated to create a comic or grotesque effect. (v) To make or give a ludicrously exaggerated representation of someone or something.
Caricature focuses on exaggerating specific, often prominent, features to create a recognizable yet distorted image, usually for humorous or critical effect.
Word relationships
- Exaggeration: Caricature is a specific type of exaggeration applied to a person or thing's characteristics, often visual; exaggeration is the broader act of overstating.
- Parody: Parody imitates a style or work; caricature imitates and exaggerates specific features of a person or thing.
- Distortion: Distortion is a general alteration of form; caricature is a specific, purposeful, and often humorous distortion.
- Portrait: A portrait aims for accurate representation, while a caricature aims for exaggerated representation.
- Likeness: Likeness implies faithful resemblance; caricature implies intentional distortion.
Word family
- caricaturist (noun): a person who draws caricatures
- caricatural (adjective): of or like a caricature
Collocations
- political caricature
- comic caricature
- ludicrous caricature
- draw a caricature
- create a caricature
Example sentences
- "The political cartoonist often used caricature to emphasize the exaggerated features of public figures, making their personalities instantly recognizable." Describing a political cartoon.
- "His performance was a brilliant caricature of the pompous professor, capturing every annoying habit with comedic precision." Discussing an actor's portrayal.
Memory hook
Imagine a 'CAR' with a 'CATURE' (creature) inside, whose features are comically over-the-top. Car-creature features
When not to use
Don't use 'caricature' to describe a general, non-exaggerated portrait or description.
Fun facts
- Leonardo da Vinci is often credited with creating some of the earliest known caricatures, though they were not widely published.
- Modern political cartoons heavily rely on caricature to quickly convey public figures' perceived traits or flaws.
Related words
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