KEWPIE Meaning and
Definition
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Kewpie is a noun that refers to a type of doll or figurine that has a distinctive design characterized by a cherub-like, baby-faced appearance. It originated in Japan and became popular worldwide as a collectible item. The name "kewpie" is believed to come from the word "Cupid," the Roman god of love, as it resembles the cherubic representations associated with the deity.
Typically, a kewpie doll measures around 8-12 inches and is made of porcelain, bisque, or celluloid. It features a round face with rosy cheeks, large eyes, and a small, impish smile. The doll's limbs might also be jointed to allow for poseability. Kewpies are often depicted wearing simple clothing like diapers, skirts, or rompers.
Kewpie dolls gained significant popularity in the early 20th century and were especially beloved as collectibles and decorative items. The dolls were often used as symbols of innocence, love, and maternity. Over time, their image has been adapted and used for various purposes, such as for branding and in marketing campaigns for products ranging from food items to toiletries.
In contemporary usage, "kewpie" can also refer more broadly to anything or anyone that resembles the distinctive character of a kewpie doll, with its wide eyes and cherubic nature.
Common Misspellings for KEWPIE
Etymology of KEWPIE
The word "kewpie" is derived from the name of a brand of dolls called "Kewpie dolls". The dolls were first created by an American cartoonist and artist named Rose O'Neill in the early 20th century. The name "kewpie" is a play on the word "cupid", as the dolls were known for their cherubic appearance and often depicted as winged cupids or baby-like figures. The term "kewpie" eventually became associated with the dolls themselves, and later on, it came to be used more broadly to refer to things that resemble or are associated with Kewpie dolls, such as kewpie mayonnaise or kewpie dolls in Japanese culture.
Idioms with the word KEWPIE
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kewpie doll
The idiom "kewpie doll" is used to describe someone who is excessively cute, adorable, or perfect in appearance, resembling the distinctive characteristics of a kewpie doll. It implies that the person referred to is charming, attractive, and appealing, often in a way that may seem exaggerated or artificial.
