Caricature

Noun

Definition: A picture, description, or imitation of a person in which certain striking characteristics are exaggerated in order to create a comic or grotesque effect.

Synonyms: Parody, Spoof, Satire

Antonyms: Realistic portrayal

Examples:

The artist's caricature of the politician captured his exaggerated facial features.
The cartoonist created a hilarious caricature of the famous actor.

Mnemonics:

"Caricature" sounds like "caricamo" (pronounced car-ee-ka-mo), which can be imagined as exaggerated movements and features of a person, just like a caricature.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "caricature" originated in the mid-18th century. It comes from the Italian word "caricatura," which means "an exaggerated representation."

Historical Usage:

Caricatures have a long history and have been used for various purposes, including political satire, social commentary, and entertainment.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"To be the caricature of oneself"

Explanation:

This phrase is used to describe someone who embodies or exaggerates their own distinctive characteristics or behaviors to an extreme degree.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Caricatures are always meant to be funny or grotesque.

Explanation:

While caricatures are often humorous or exaggerated in nature, they can also be used to convey political messages, social commentary, or as a form of artistic expression without necessarily being comical or grotesque.