grotesque

adjective groh-TESK Rare

Origin: Italian 'grottesca', from 'grotta' (grotto)

Also means

absurd

Usage Note

Grotesque derives from Italian cave paintings featuring fantastical hybrid figures, so it originally described a specific ornamental style before broadening to 'ludicrous' or 'distorted'. It is invariable in gender (same form for masculine and feminine). In art history, le grotesque (masculine noun) still refers to the decorative motif of intertwined figures and foliage.

Examples

"Son costume grotesque fit rire tout le monde."

Natural Translation

His grotesque costume made everyone laugh.

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