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skeuomorph

[ skyoo-uh-mawrf ]
/ ˈskyu əˌmɔrf /
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noun
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.
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.
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In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…
candystring
candyfloss
candypuff
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Origin of skeuomorph

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

OTHER WORDS FROM skeuomorph

skeu·o·mor·phic [skyoo-uh-mawr-fik] /ˌskyu əˈmɔr fɪk/ adjectiveskeu·o·mor·phics, noun

Words nearby skeuomorph

sketchbook, sketch map, sketchpad, sketchy, skete, skeuomorph, skeuomorphism, skew, skew arch, skewback, skewbald
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use skeuomorph in a sentence

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

    Evolution in Art|Alfred C. Haddon

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

    Evolution in Art|Alfred C. Haddon

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

    Evolution in Art|Alfred C. Haddon
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