campy

[kam-pee]

adjective

campier, campiest 

1. of, relating to, or characterized by theatrical or extravagant style, expressing playful irreverence or knowing amusement.

   a campy send-up of romantic operettas.

ˈcampy

/ ˈkæmpɪ /

adjective

1. effeminate; affected in mannerisms, dress, etc

2. relating to or considered characteristic of homosexuals

3. consciously artificial, exaggerated, vulgar, or mannered; self-parodying, esp when in dubious taste

Other Word Forms

• campily adverb
• campiness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of campy¹

First recorded in 1930–35; camp ² + -y ¹

Example Sentences

“The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show” promises to combat the world’s devastation with campy magic and mirth that only a queer interpretation of Christmas can provide.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Life Day has its roots in the beloved but campy and culturally questionable “Star Wars Holiday Special” as an event that originated on the Wookie home planet of Kashyyyk.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s campy, it’s cheesy, it’s way more fun than you expect it to be, but there’s a knowingness to the whole endeavor.

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Visually, it is melodramatic, almost campy, resembling a TV promotion.

Read more on Salon

The stories move fast, and some of the acting and plots can be both campy and racy.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• charming 
• comical 
• delightful 
• diverting 
• droll 
• engaging 
• enjoyable 
• entertaining 
• fun 
• gratifying 
• humorous 
• interesting 
• lively 
• pleasant 
• pleasing