Kitsch: Definition & Meaning for the SAT
⚡️ KITSCH most nearly means: (A) sophisticated art; (B) tacky decorations; (C) valuable antiques; (D) minimalist design. 👉 Answer + examples, pronunciation, and explanation inside.
📣 TL;DR: Kitsch means art or objects considered to be in poor taste but appreciated in an ironic way. Mnemonic to help remember: If it makes you go ICK, but you still display it in your KITCHEN, it's KITSCH.
ℹ️ Part of Speech of Kitsch
kitsch is a NOUN.
🗣️ Pronunciation of Kitsch
kitsch is pronounced /kɪtʃ/ or KITCH.
📚️ Definition of Kitsch
Art, objects, or design considered to be in poor taste because of excessive garishness or sentimentality, but sometimes appreciated in an ironic or knowing way. Example: The thrift store was a treasure trove of kitsch from the 1970s.
📰 Examples of Kitsch
Here are some examples of the word kitsch:
My grandmother's living room was a museum of kitsch, featuring ceramic angels, various velvet paintings, and at least seven decorative plates with pictures of kittens.
The diner promoted its reputation for kitsch by covering its walls with vintage advertisements, neon signs, and bobblehead dolls from the mid-1900s.
There is something uniquely satisfying about a well-placed piece of kitsch in your living room.
✅ Quiz answer
Answer to the question above:
B, tacky decorations. Explanations: A doesn't work; sophisticated art is the opposite of kitsch. C could be heirlooms or artifacts. D doesn't work; minimalist design avoids the excess that defines kitsch.
Great word choice!