garish Meaning and Definition
garish
Pronunciation
/ˈɡærɪʃ/
Part of Speech
adjective
Definition
Extraordinarily and unpleasantly showy or gaudy; being beyond what is considered good taste or style.
Examples
- The decorations were garish and overwhelming.
- The flashy new sports car had a garish paint job.
Synonyms
- Gaudy
- Lavish
- Tacky
Antonyms
- Simple
- Elegant
Etymology
The word “garish” comes from the Latin “garire”, meaning “to shine or glare”, and originally referred to the blinding light of the sun or a brilliant color.
Additional Information
In modern usage, the term “garish” often connotes a lack of subtlety or restraint in design, decoration, or fashion. While some people may appreciate bold and eye-catching elements, others may find them overwhelming or tasteless.
In art and design, “garish” is sometimes used as a deliberate aesthetic choice, particularly in certain styles such as pop art or kitsch. However, in other contexts, the term is often used to describe something that is considered in poor taste or over-the-top.
Usage Notes
The word “garish” is often used to describe something that is visually striking or attention-grabbing, but in a negative sense. It is commonly used to describe clothing, accessories, or even hairstyles that are considered too flashy or extravagant.
Cultural References
The term “garish” has been used in various forms of media, including literature, music, and film. For example, the novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald features a garish and extravagant party hosted by the character of Gatsby.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Too garish for words”
- “Garish and gaudy”
Related Words or Phrases
- flashy
- tacky
- ostentatious
Collocations
- garish colors
- garish decorations
- garish designs
Frequency of Use
The word “garish” is not as commonly used as some other adjectives, but it is still a widely recognized term in English language and culture.
Common Misspellings
- garisher
- garishly