KITSCH Meaning and
Definition
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Kitsch is a noun that refers to a style of art, decoration, or design that is tacky, over-the-top, or deemed to be in bad taste. It is often characterized by its excessive use of sentimental or clichéd imagery, exaggerated details, and a lack of artistic nuance or sophistication.
Kitsch can take the form of various objects, such as paintings, sculptures, household decorations, or even fashion items. It typically utilizes bright colors, gaudy patterns, and cheesy motifs that are intended to elicit a strong emotional response from viewers. While perceived as vulgar or tasteless by some, kitsch is often embraced for its unabashedly flamboyant and nostalgic qualities.
The term "kitsch" originated in Germany in the 1920s and derives from the word "kitschen," meaning "to throw together." Originally associated with low-quality, mass-produced trinkets and souvenirs, kitsch has gradually evolved to encompass a broad range of cultural products. It is important to note that what is considered kitsch can vary among individuals and cultures, as personal taste and cultural sensitivity play a significant role in its perception.
Overall, kitsch is characterized by its deliberate intention to provoke sentimentality or nostalgia, despite its lack of artistic merit or genuine emotional connection. It often appeals to the masses due to its accessible and uncomplicated nature. Whether appreciated as an ironic homage or dismissed as tasteless artifice, kitsch remains a subjective and enduring aspect of popular culture.
Common Misspellings for KITSCH
Etymology of KITSCH
The word "kitsch" is believed to have originated in the German language. It is derived from the verb "verkitschen", which means "to make cheap or tacky". The word "kitsch" itself was first used in German during the 1920s to describe low-quality, sentimental, or mass-produced art or objects. It gained popularity in the English language during the 1930s, mainly through the translation of German publications critiquing art and aesthetics. The term has since been adopted internationally to refer to a style often associated with superficiality and excessive sentimentality.
Similar spelling words for KITSCH
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