Definition of Cartoon - Merriam-Webster
Overview
Cartoon is a noun with the following pronunciations:
Definitions
- Preparatory Design
- A preparatory design, drawing, or painting (as for a fresco).
- Drawing for Satire or Humor
- A drawing intended as satire, caricature, or humor, such as political cartoons or humorous illustrations.
- Group of Drawings
- A group of drawings in narrative sequence, like a comic strip.
- Animated Video
- A video made from a series of drawings or computer graphics that simulates movement through progressive changes in each frame, such as animated cartoons.
- Simplistic Portrayal
- Ludicrously simplistic, unrealistic, or one-dimensional portrayal or version.
Word Forms and Related Terms
- Cartoon (verb):
- The act of creating cartoons.
- Cartooning (noun):
- The practice or process of creating cartoons.
- Cartoonish (adjective):
- Resembling a cartoon in style.
- Cartoonishly (adverb):
- In a cartoon-like manner.
- Cartoonist (noun):
- A person who creates cartoons.
- Cartoonlike (adjective):
- Resembling or characteristic of a cartoon.
- Cartoony (adjective):
- Informal term for cartoon-like.
Synonyms
Example Sentences
- She enjoys reading the cartoons in the Sunday paper.
- The kids are watching cartoons.
Word History
- Etymology
- From Italian cartone, meaning pasteboard or cartoon, which is an augmentative of carta (leaf of paper).
- First Known Use:
Phrases Containing "Cartoon"
Related Articles
- Webtoon: A digital comic scrolled vertically.
- Early Cartoons: Originally not created for children.
Additional Resources
- Nglish: Translation of cartoon for Spanish speakers.
- Britannica English: Translation for Arabic speakers.
- Encyclopedia article about cartoons.
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2025