English Lexicon

Cartoony

/ˈkɑːr.tuː.ni/
adjectiveCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #25400 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Resembling or characteristic of a cartoon, typically in being brightly colored, simplified, or having exaggerated features.

    "The video game features cartoony graphics and delightfully over-the-top animations."
  2. 2

    Unrealistic or overly simplistic in manner, behavior, or appearance.

    "His performance in the drama felt a bit too cartoony for such a serious storyline."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the noun 'cartoon' (ultimately from Italian 'cartone', meaning strong paper or pasteboard used for preliminary sketches) combined with the English suffix '-y'. Evolving in the 20th century with the rise of animated media, the term shifted from describing sketch-like artistic qualities to characterizing anything exhibiting the exaggerated features, bright colors, or whimsical nature typical of animated cartoons.

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