¹grotesque

noun gro·tesque \grō-ˈtesk\

Definition of GROTESQUE

a : a style of decorative art characterized by fanciful or fantastic human and animal forms often interwoven with foliage or similar figures that may distort the natural into absurdity, ugliness, or caricature

b : a piece of work in this style

: one that is grotesque

: sans serif

Origin of GROTESQUE

Middle French & Old Italian; Middle French, from Old Italian (pittura) grottesca, literally, cave painting, feminine of grottesco of a cave, from grotta

First Known Use: 1561

Related to GROTESQUE

Synonyms: monster, grotesquerie (also grotesquery), monstrosity, ogre

Rhymes with GROTESQUE

burlesque, moresque

²grotesque

adjective

: very strange or ugly in a way that is not normal or natural

: extremely different from what is expected or usual

Full Definition of GROTESQUE

: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of the grotesque: as

a : fanciful, bizarre

b : absurdly incongruous

c : departing markedly from the natural, the expected, or the typical

— gro·tesque·ly adverb

— gro·tesque·ness noun

See grotesque defined for English-language learners

See grotesque defined for kids

First Known Use of GROTESQUE

1603

Related to GROTESQUE

Synonyms: grating, harsh, jarring, unaesthetic

Antonyms: aesthetic (also esthetic or aesthetical or esthetical)

Synonym Discussion of GROTESQUE

fantastic, bizarre, grotesque mean conceived, made, or carried out without adherence to truth or reality. fantastic may connote extravagance in conception or ingenuity of decorative invention <dreamed up fantastic rumors>. bizarre applies to the sensationally strange and implies violence of contrast or incongruity of combination <a bizarre medieval castle in the heart of a modern city>. grotesque may apply to what is conventionally ugly but artistically effective or it may connote ludicrous awkwardness or incongruity often with sinister or tragic overtones <grotesque statues on the cathedral> <though grieving, she made a grotesque attempt at a smile>.

GROTESQUE Defined for Kids