art deco

Or Art Deco

noun

1. a style of decorative art developed originally in the 1920s with a revival in the 1960s, marked chiefly by geometric motifs, curvilinear forms, sharply defined outlines, often bold colors, and the use of synthetic materials, as plastics.

Art Deco

/ ˈdɛkəʊ /

noun

1. 1. a style of interior decoration, jewellery, architecture, etc, at its height in the 1930s and characterized by geometrical shapes, stylized natural forms, and symmetrical utilitarian designs adapted to mass production

   2. ( as modifier )

      an Art-Deco carpet

Word History and Origins

Origin of art deco¹

1965–70; < French Art Déco, shortened from Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, an exposition of modern decorative and industrial arts held in Paris, France, in 1925

Word History and Origins

Origin of art deco¹

C20: shortened from art décoratif, after the Exposition des arts décoratifs held in Paris in 1925

Example Sentences

The present four-story art deco property was constructed in 1926 at the height of the Prohibition and was known for the flamboyant speakeasy in its basement.

From Los Angeles Times

The ceremony, held at Radio City Music Hall amid the art deco splendor of old New York, was presided over by Tony-winner Cynthia Erivo, a natural wonder of the theatrical universe.

From Los Angeles Times

Vice City's version of Miami's art deco, neon-lit beachfront appears in the trailer, as does the Grassrivers swampland, inspired by the Florida everglades.

From BBC

Penarth Pier, now 117 years old and instantly recognisable with its art deco styled pavilion building, permits fishing for nine months of the year.

From BBC

Look closely and you’ll see the art deco ornamentation on the Empire State Building is actually dinosaur claws in front of knight shields.

From Seattle Times