BALLOON ANIMAL Meaning and
Definition
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A balloon animal refers to a decorative art form created by twisting and shaping long, flexible balloons into various animal shapes. Typically made by professional entertainers or artists known as balloon twisters, balloon animals are widely popular as entertainment at parties, fairs, and events of all kinds. These whimsical creations are made by inflating and manipulating thin latex or rubber balloons, resulting in a three-dimensional representation of an animal or creature that usually resembles a cartoonish version.
The process involves a technique called balloon twisting, where the balloons are strategically twisted and braided to create distinct shapes and features. This may include bending and folding the balloons, making loops, bubbles, and knots to form different animal parts such as legs, bodies, heads, tails, and appendages. The main characteristic of the balloon animal is its flexibility, allowing it to be posed and manipulated into different positions, enhancing its playful and amusing nature.
Balloon animals can take on the likeness of a broad range of animals, such as dogs, cats, giraffes, rabbits, elephants, and more. They showcase vibrant colors and intricate designs to add to their visual appeal. Besides being a form of artistic expression, balloon animals often serve as temporary toys or party favors, delighting children and adults alike with their whimsy and ability to transcend the boundaries of reality.
Etymology of BALLOON ANIMAL
The word "balloon animal" consists of two parts: "balloon" and "animal".
The term "balloon" comes from the Middle French word "ballon", meaning a large ball or a game played with a large, inflated ball. This was derived from the Italian word "ballone", which means "large ball" or "puff". The word "balloon" in English started to specifically refer to an inflated rubber bag or an object made by filling a flexible material with gas around the 18th century.
On the other hand, "animal" originated from the Latin word "animalis", meaning a living being or a living creature. The Latin word was derived from "anima", which refers to breath, soul, or life. Over time, "animal" came to represent any living organism.
