skeuomorph

[ skyoo-uh-mawrf ]

noun

1. an ornament or design on an object that mimics the form of the object when made from another material or by other techniques, usually one that reflects a previously functional element, as an imitation metal rivet mark found on handles of prehistoric pottery.
2. Digital Technology. a design or design element, as an icon on a digital device, that mimics the three-dimensional look or the sound of a physical object, such as LCD hands on a smartwatch or the shutter sound on a digital camera.

Other Words From

• skeu·o·mor·phic [skyoo-, uh, -, mawr, -fik] adjective
• skeu·o·mor·phics noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of skeuomorph¹

First recorded in 1885–90; from Greek skeû(os) “vessel, implement” + -o- + -morph

Example Sentences

Now one part of the body was surrendered to the skeuomorph and anon another.

From Project Gutenberg

This particular skeuomorph is composed of a band that winds in and out among a row of rods or discs.

From Project Gutenberg

To speak somewhat figuratively, heteromorphism is a sort of disease that may attack the skeuomorph or the biomorph.

From Project Gutenberg