What does kitschify mean?
The verb kitschify refers to the act of making something resemble or characteristic of kitsch, a style or aesthetic that is considered tacky, sentimental, or overly ornate. This can involve adding excessive decoration, using overly sentimental themes, or employing campy or ironic humor. Kitschify is often used pejoratively to describe something that has been made overly sentimental or tacky, and can be used in a variety of contexts, including art, design, literature, and film. The term is closely related to concepts of camp and irony, and can be used to describe works that are intentionally or unintentionally kitschy. Understanding what constitutes kitsch and how it is used can help clarify the meaning of kitschify.
verbTo make something resemble or characteristic of kitsch, often in a way that is considered tacky or sentimental.
- To make something resemble or characteristic of kitsch
- To make something sentimental or overly emotional
"The interior designer was accused of trying to kitschify the historic mansion with overly ornate decorations."
"The artist's latest sculpture was accused of kitschifying a serious social issue."
"The movie's over-the-top finale kitschified the otherwise realistic plot."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of kitschify
The term kitschify is derived from the noun kitsch, which originated in the mid-19th century in Germany. Kitsch referred to a type of art or literature that was considered inferior or tacky. The verb kitschify emerged in the mid-20th century, likely in the United States, as a way to describe the act of making something resemble or characteristic of kitsch.
Usage notes
Often used pejoratively to describe something that has been made overly sentimental or tacky.