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garish

adjective

/ˈɡɛːrɪʃ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of garish

Excessively bright, loud, or showy, and often in a way that is considered tasteless or vulgar.
"He wore a garish shirt that stood out in the crowd."

Detailed meaning of garish

It is often used to describe colors, patterns, or styles that are too bold or overwhelming and clash with each other. It can also describe something that is gaudy, flashy, or ostentatious, which are in bad taste. It can be used to describe a person's appearance or behavior that is overly conspicuous or attention-seeking. For example, a garish outfit is one that is overly colorful or flashy, or a garish display of wealth is one that is excessively flashy and in poor taste. Garish can also be used to describe something that is loud or excessively bright, such as garish neon lights or garish music.

Example sentences containing garish

1. The garish neon lights of the city's nightlife district could be seen from miles away.
2. Her outfit was a clash of garish colors that drew attention wherever she went.
3. The hotel's lobby was adorned with garish decorations that seemed out of place.
4. The artist's painting was criticized for its garish use of bright, unnatural hues.
5. The comedian's humor was a bit too garish for some, but others found it hilarious.
6. The garish advertisement posters dominated the streets, making the area look like a carnival.

History and etymology of garish

The adjective 'garish' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'gawrish,' which meant 'showy' or 'ostentatious.' Its precise origins are somewhat obscure, but 'garish' describes something that is excessively bright, loud, or showy, often in a way that is considered tasteless or vulgar. The term embodies the concept of excessive ornamentation and flamboyance, frequently associated with gaudy and ostentatious displays that can be visually overwhelming. 'Garish' is a word that often conveys a sense of aesthetic distaste, highlighting the idea that an excessive display of color, style, or decoration can cross the line into tackiness or vulgarity. It reflects the human capacity for discerning subtlety and balance in matters of taste and aesthetics, contrasting the fine line between elegance and garishness.

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Further usage examples of garish

1. The garish makeup and extravagant accessories completed her eccentric look.
2. The restaurant's interior was a mix of garish patterns and mismatched furniture.
3. The party's theme was "retro futuristic," resulting in a garish blend of metallics and neon.
4. The Halloween costume was intentionally garish, featuring loud patterns and outrageous accessories.
5. The nightclub's décor was intentionally garish, creating an over-the-top atmosphere.
6. The garish sunset painted the sky with shades of pink, orange, and purple.
7. Her taste in fashion leaned towards the garish, favoring bold patterns and statement accessories.
8. The floral arrangement looked garish due to the combination of clashing colors.
9. The garish stage design reflected the whimsical and fantastical nature of the play.
10. The garish wallpaper in the hotel room made it feel more like a circus tent than a place to rest.
11. The car's custom paint job was so garish that it turned heads on every street.
12. The garish graphics on the video game's packaging didn't accurately represent its content.
13. The actress embraced her character's garish wardrobe to fully embody the role.
14. The garish balloons and streamers transformed the backyard into a lively party setting.