GROTESQUE - Definition & Meaning for Kids

Simple definitions and word synonyms for kids.

Part of speech: Adjective

distorted and unnatural in shape or size; abnormal and hideous

Example: tales of grotesque serpents eight fathoms long that churned the seas; twisted into monstrous shapes

The word "grotesque" comes from Italian grottesco, which comes from Middle French grotesque. Many other languages have similar words:

grotto – A related word in the same word family.

English has both Germanic and French words for the same things—'begin' vs 'commence', 'help' vs 'assist'.