Definition of Cartoon: Everything You Need to Know About This Vibrant Medium

Definition of Cartoon: A cartoon is a type of illustration, possibly animated, typically in a non-realistic or semi-realistic style. The specific meaning has evolved over time, but the modern usage usually refers to either: an image or series of images intended for satire, caricature, or humor; or a motion picture that relies on a sequence of illustrations for its animation. Someone who creates cartoons in the first sense is called a cartoonist, and in the second sense, they are usually called an animator.

Origins and Definitions:

The term “cartoon” traces its roots to the Italian word “cartone,” derived from the Latin “carta,” meaning paper or cardboard. Initially, cartoons referred to preparatory drawings for artworks such as paintings, tapestries, and stained-glass windows during the Middle Ages. However, in the 19th century, the meaning of cartoons expanded to include humorous illustrations in magazines and newspapers.

Today, the term “cartoon” encompasses various forms and interpretations. In its simplest form, a cartoon refers to a drawing that humorously exaggerates the features of its subjects, often for satirical or comedic effect. These drawings may appear as standalone images or as part of a narrative sequence, known as a cartoon or comic strip.

Furthermore, cartoons extend beyond static illustrations to include animated films that rely on sequences of drawings for their animation. These animated cartoons, popularized in the early 20th century, have become a beloved form of entertainment, captivating audiences of all ages with their vibrant characters and imaginative storytelling.

Types of Cartoons:

1. Editorial Cartoons: Editorial cartoons, also known as political cartoons, offer scathing commentary on current events, social issues, and political figures. Through clever imagery and witty captions, editorial cartoonists critique and lampoon societal norms and power structures, challenging viewers to reflect on the world around them.

2. Comic Strips: Comic strips, a staple of newspapers and magazines, feature narrative sequences of humorous drawings accompanied by captions or speech balloons. From iconic strips like “Peanuts” by Charles Schulz to modern webcomics, comic strips entertain readers with relatable characters and clever punchlines.

3. Animated Cartoons: Animated cartoons bring drawings to life through the magic of animation. From classic hand-drawn animation to computer-generated imagery (CGI), animated cartoons transport audiences to fantastical worlds and imaginative adventures. Whether in theaters or on television, animated cartoons enchant viewers with creativity and charm.

A Comprehensive Definition of Cartoon

Cartoon is a term that carries multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It is most commonly associated with humorous drawings, animations, or satirical illustrations that comment on social or political issues. However, the definition of a cartoon extends beyond these common associations to include other artistic expressions and even preparatory sketches in fine arts. Below, we’ll explore each of these interpretations in depth.

1. Humorous Drawings in Newspapers and Magazines

One of the earliest and most popular definitions of a cartoon is that of a humorous or satirical drawing, often published in newspapers, magazines, or other media. These cartoons exaggerate the physical or behavioral characteristics of their subjects for comedic or critical effect. This form of cartooning is a powerful tool for satire, as it can make complex social or political issues more accessible through humor.

For example, political cartoons often depict well-known figures in exaggerated forms to criticize or comment on their actions. The drawing might highlight certain facial features or mannerisms in an exaggerated way, making the figure instantly recognizable and provoking thought, humor, or even outrage.

Synonyms for this type of cartoon include:

• Caricature
• Satire
• Lampoon
• Spoof

2. Comic Strips and Graphic Narratives

Another prevalent use of the word “cartoon” refers to comic strips—a sequence of drawings that tell a story through images and often include text in speech bubbles or captions. Some well-known examples of comic strips include Peanutsby Charles Schulz or Garfield by Jim Davis.

These cartoons, typically found in newspapers or magazines, follow recurring characters and deliver short, humorous narratives. They appeal to a wide audience, often blending humor with subtle commentary on everyday life or relationships.

Related forms include:

• Comic strip
• Graphic novel
• Manga (Japanese comics)

3. Animated Cartoons: From TV to Cinema

In modern pop culture, the term “cartoon” is most often associated with animated films or TV shows. Animated cartoons are created by photographing a sequence of drawings or using computer-generated imagery (CGI) to give the illusion of movement. These can range from short, simple animations for children, like Tom and Jerry or SpongeBob SquarePants, to more sophisticated productions for adults, such as The Simpsons or South Park.

Animations in this category aren’t confined to humor; they can also be action-packed, dramatic, or educational. Japanese anime, for instance, is a form of animated cartoon that often explores serious themes, including love, loss, and societal issues, using the visual storytelling techniques of cartoons.

Commonly associated terms include:

• Animated film
• Anime
• CGI animation

4. Simplified or Exaggerated Interpretations of Real Life

Outside of drawings and animated shows, the term “cartoon” is often used metaphorically to describe a simplified or exaggerated version of something. For instance, people may refer to an overly simplistic or one-dimensional portrayal of a person as a “cartoon” version of their true self. This usage suggests a lack of depth or complexity, implying that the person or situation is being misrepresented or unfairly reduced to certain traits or stereotypes.

In literature, movies, or television, villains are sometimes described as “cartoonish” when their motivations or personalities are overly exaggerated, making them feel unrealistic.

5. Cartoons in Fine Arts

Historically, the term “cartoon” had a very different meaning in the context of fine arts. In this sense, a cartoon refers to a full-size preparatory drawing or sketch that artists used as a guide for creating more complex works like frescoes, tapestries, or mosaics.

For instance, Renaissance artists like Michelangelo and Raphael created cartoons as a first step toward their larger, more intricate works. These preparatory cartoons were often drawn on strong paper (hence the name, derived from the Italian word cartone, meaning heavy paper) and served as templates for the final artwork.

Related terms include:

• Sketch
• Preliminary drawing
• Underdrawing
• Outline

Grammatical Definition of Cartoon

/kɑːˈtuːn/

Cartoon (noun)

noun: cartoon; plural noun: cartoons

Noun

1. Humorous or Satirical Drawing
   A cartoon is a simplified or exaggerated drawing that humorously portrays its subjects, often used to provide satire or commentary on social, political, or cultural issues. These drawings are typically found in newspapers, magazines, and online platforms, where they serve to highlight and critique current events or public figures through visual satire. For example:
   • “The minister faced a welter of hostile headlines and mocking cartoons.”
2. Synonyms: caricature, parody, lampoon, satire, travesty, spoof, pasquinade
3. Narrative Sequence of Illustrations (Comic Strip)
   A cartoon can also refer to a series of drawings arranged sequentially to tell a humorous or adventurous story. Commonly known as comic strips, these cartoons are featured in newspapers, magazines, and digital media, often accompanied by captions or dialogue bubbles to convey the narrative. Notable examples include:
   • “A Peanuts cartoon by Charles Schulz”
   • “The daily adventures of Garfield in the newspaper cartoon strip.”
4. Synonyms: comic strip, graphic novel, manga
5. Animated Film or Television Show
   In the context of animation, a cartoon refers to a film or television show created by photographing a sequence of drawings, illustrations, or computer-generated images to produce the illusion of movement. These animated cartoons range from short sketches to full-length feature films and are a staple of children’s entertainment as well as adult-oriented satire. Examples include:
   • “We watched Yogi Bear cartoons on TV.”
   • “Classic Disney cartoons have entertained generations.”
6. Synonyms: animated film, animation, anime, animated cartoon
7. Preliminary Design in Fine Arts
   In the realm of fine arts, a cartoon is a full-size preparatory drawing made by an artist as a guide for creating a larger work, such as a painting, fresco, tapestry, or mosaic. These detailed sketches ensure accurate transfer of the design to the final medium. For instance:
   • “The tapestries are based on a set of cartoons commissioned by Pope Leo XI.”
8. Synonyms: sketch, rough draft, preliminary drawing, outline, artist’s impression, maquette, ébauche

Verb

• To Cartoon
  The act of creating a cartoon involves drawing subjects in a simplified or exaggerated manner, often for humorous or satirical effect. For example:
  • “She has a face with enough character to be cartooned.”

Adjectives and Related Forms

• Cartoonish / Cartoonishly
  Describing something that resembles or is characteristic of a cartoon, often implying exaggeration or simplification.
  • “The novel is full of predictable, cartoon characters, never believable as real people.”
• Cartoonist
  A person who creates cartoons, whether they are single humorous drawings, comic strips, or animated films.
  • “He started drawing cartoons when he was still at school.”
• Cartoony
  Similar to cartoonish, often used to describe something that looks like it belongs in a cartoon.
  • “Sounds like a powerful cartoon horse with a rainbow mane.”

Etymology

The term “cartoon” originates from the Italian word cartone, meaning “strong, heavy paper,” which historically referred to preparatory drawings. Over time, the term evolved to encompass humorous and satirical drawings, as well as animated films.

Usage Examples

• Humorous Drawing: “A political cartoon depicted the senator juggling various issues with ease.”
• Comic Strip: “Readers eagerly await the latest installment of the daily cartoon strip.”
• Animated Film: “Saturday morning cartoons are a beloved tradition for many children.”
• Preliminary Design: “The artist presented his cartoon to the committee before commencing the mural.”

Collocations

• Types of Cartoons: editorial cartoon, political cartoon, classic cartoon, animated cartoon
• Actions: draw a cartoon, watch a cartoon, feature a cartoon, create a cartoon
• Descriptive Phrases: funny cartoon, original cartoon, popular cartoon, cartoon illustration

Translations in Other Languages

• Spanish: caricatura, dibujos animados
• French: dessin animé, caricature
• German: Karikatur, Zeichentrickfilm
• Japanese: 漫画 (manga), アニメ (anime)
• Chinese: 卡通片 (kǎtōng piàn), 动画 (dònghuà)

Cultural Significance

Cartoons play a vital role in media and entertainment, offering a unique blend of humor, satire, and storytelling. They are instrumental in shaping public opinion, providing social commentary, and entertaining audiences of all ages. From political cartoons that critique societal issues to animated films that capture the imagination, cartoons are a versatile and enduring form of artistic expression.

Cartoon (verb)

verb: cartoon; 3rd person present: cartoons; past tense: cartooned; past participle: cartooned; gerund or present participle: cartooning

1. 1.make a drawing of (someone) in a simplified or exaggerated way.”she has a face with enough character to be cartooned”

Origin

late 16th century (in cartoon (sense 3 of the noun)): from Italian cartone, from carta, from Latin carta, charta (see card¹). Cartoon (sense 1 of the noun) dates from the mid 19th century.

The concept originated in the Middle Ages, and first described a preparatory drawing for a piece of art, such as a painting, fresco, tapestry, or stained-glass window. In the 19th century, beginning in Punch magazine in 1843, cartoon came to refer – ironically at first – to humorous illustrations in magazines and newspapers. In the early 20th century, it began to refer to animated films that resembled print cartoons.

Editorial Cartoon

A political cartoon, an editorial cartoon, is a graphic with caricatures of public figures expressing the artist‘s opinion. An artist who writes and draws such images is an editorial cartoonist. They typically combine artistic skill, hyperbole, and satire to question authority and draw attention to corruption, political violence, and other social ills. Developed in England in the latter part of the 18th century, James Gillray pioneered the political cartoon. However, he and others in the flourishing English industry were sold as individual prints in print shops.

Founded in 1841, the British periodical Punch appropriated the term cartoon to refer to its political cartoons, leading to its widespread use.

Political Cartoon

Political cartoons are like illustrated editorials that serve as visual commentaries on political events. They offer subtle criticism, which is cleverly quoted with humor and satire to the extent that the criticism does not get embittered. The pictorial satire of William Hogarth is regarded as a precursor to the development of political cartoons in 18th-century England. George Townshend produced some of the first overtly political cartoons and caricatures in the 1750s.

The medium began to develop in the latter part of the 18th century under the direction of its great exponents, James Gillray and Thomas Rowlandson, both from London. Gillray explored the use of the medium for lampooning and caricature and has been referred to as the father of the political cartoon.

Creating Cartoons:

Whether crafting a political cartoon or an animated film, creating cartoons requires creativity, technical skill, and a keen understanding of visual storytelling. Editorial cartoonists must navigate the complexities of political satire, distilling complex issues into concise and impactful imagery.

Similarly, animators must possess proficiency in animation techniques, including character design, storyboard development, and digital rendering. Through meticulous attention to detail and artistic expression, cartoonists and animators bring their creations to life, captivating audiences with their unique visions and storytelling prowess.

Evolution of Cartoons:

Over the centuries, cartoons have undergone a remarkable evolution, adapting to technological advancements and shifting cultural landscapes. From the satirical prints of the 18th century to the animated blockbusters of the 21st century, cartoons reflect and influence society’s values, beliefs, and aspirations.

Moreover, cartoons have adapted to embrace diverse voices and perspectives, challenging stereotypes and amplifying marginalized voices in popular culture. From inclusive representation of race, gender, and sexuality to nuanced storytelling that tackles complex themes, cartoons have the power to inspire empathy, provoke thought, and foster understanding.

Cartoon in Other Languages

Notes:

• Japanese: “Manga” refers to printed comics, while “Anime” refers to animated cartoons.
• Arabic and Greek: Emphasize the “movement” aspect in their translations.
• German and Italian: Use compound words that directly relate to “drawing” and “animation”.

Pronunciation Guide:

• Pronunciations are approximate and provided using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) equivalents where applicable.
• Stress is indicated by capitalization of the syllable.

Notes on Specific Translations

• Multiple Terms: Many languages use distinct terms for different types of cartoons. For example, German differentiates between Zeichentrickfilm (animated cartoons) and Karikatur (caricatures).
• Cultural Variations: In some languages, the term for “cartoon” may lean more towards comics (e.g., manga in Japanese) or animation (e.g., anime in Japanese).
• General Usage: Certain languages use a single term to encompass multiple meanings of “cartoon.” For instance, Thai uses การ์ตูน (kaartoon) to refer to both animated cartoons and comic strips.
• Regional Differences: Spanish distinguishes between European Spanish and Latin American Spanish, with variations in terms like chiste gráfico versus dibujos animados.

Additional Context

Understanding the nuances of the term “cartoon” across different languages is essential, especially in contexts like translation, localization, and cross-cultural communication. The variations often reflect cultural preferences and the prominence of specific forms of cartooning within a society.

For instance:

• Japanese: Manga refers to comics, which are a significant cultural export, while anime denotes animated cartoons, known worldwide for their distinctive style and storytelling.
• French: Dessin animé is widely recognized due to the global influence of French animation studios, whereas caricature is used for satirical or exaggerated drawings.
• Spanish: The distinction between chiste gráfico and dibujos animados helps differentiate between satirical cartoons and animated content, respectively.

The Role of Cartoons in Society

Cartoons, in their many forms, play a unique and influential role in society. They act as both a mirror and a lens, reflecting societal issues while also distilling them into simplified visuals or narratives. Whether it’s a political cartoon in a newspaper that offers a biting commentary on current events or an animated show that introduces children to moral lessons, cartoons communicate ideas in a way that is accessible, entertaining, and often deeply thought-provoking.

Why Cartoons Resonate:

• Visual Appeal: Cartoons rely on strong, clear visuals to convey messages. This can make them immediately engaging, even to people who might not otherwise pay attention to the subject matter.
• Humor: Humor is a universal tool that makes cartoons particularly effective in communicating complex ideas. Whether through exaggerated facial expressions or witty dialogue, humor can defuse tension and make difficult topics more approachable.
• Cultural Commentary: Cartoons are a powerful medium for cultural and political critique. They can condense complicated ideas into a single, impactful image or story, making them a potent form of commentary.

Cartoons for Different Audiences

It’s important to recognize that cartoons are not just for children. While many animated shows or comic strips are aimed at younger audiences, cartoons can also appeal to adults, often with more complex or satirical themes. Political cartoons, for example, are almost exclusively intended for adult readers, as they engage with nuanced social and political commentary.

Meanwhile, graphic novels—essentially extended, more detailed comic strips—have evolved into a literary form that covers a broad range of genres, from romance and adventure to dystopian and philosophical themes. Cartoons in this form can be deeply moving and intellectually stimulating.

Uses of cartoons

Dataset Fields Explanation:

• ID: A unique identifier for each type of cartoon.
• Type of Cartoon: The specific category or genre of cartoon.
• Purpose: The main objective or role of the cartoon (e.g., entertainment, satire, education).
• Medium: The technique or format used to create the cartoon (e.g., hand-drawn, 3D animation, digital).
• Primary Use: The context in which the cartoon is distributed or consumed (e.g., TV, cinema, online platforms).
• Target Audience: The intended demographic for the cartoon (e.g., children, adults, general public).
• Examples: Well-known examples of cartoons that fit each type.

Conclusion:

Cartoons, in all their forms, are a versatile and impactful medium of artistic expression. They are much more than just funny drawings in a newspaper or animated shows on TV. Whether used for humor, political satire, or artistic preparation, cartoons hold a unique place in both popular culture and fine arts. Their ability to simplify complex ideas and engage audiences through visual storytelling ensures their relevance across generations and cultures.

From classic comic strips like Peanuts to the sophisticated narratives found in graphic novels and anime, cartoons continue to shape how we perceive and understand the world. Whether they make us laugh, think, or both, cartoons remain an enduring and dynamic part of human expression.

Cartoon by F Dost Mohamad, Iran
Definitions of Cartoon, Researched and Written by Arifur Rahman

References:

• McCloud, Scott. “Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art.” HarperPerennial, 1994.
• Barrier, Michael. “Hollywood Cartoons: American Animation in Its Golden Age.” Oxford University Press, 1999.
• Wells, Paul. “Understanding Animation.” Routledge, 1998.

Read also

1. Definitions of Illustration
2. Definitions of Artwork
3. Definitions of Comic
4. Definitions of Caricature

Frequently Asked Questions about Cartoons

1. What is a cartoon? 

A cartoon is an illustration, possibly animated, typically in a non-realistic or semi-realistic style. It can be a static image intended for satire, caricature, humor, or a motion picture that relies on a sequence of illustrations for its animation.

2. Who creates cartoons? 

Cartoonists and animators create cartoons. Cartoonists specialize in creating static images, often for newspapers, magazines, or online platforms, while animators bring illustrations to life through motion and sound, usually for television, film, or digital media.

3. What is the difference between a cartoonist and an animator? 

A cartoonist creates static images, such as editorial cartoons or comic strips, while an animator produces motion pictures, such as animated films or television shows. While both professions require artistic skill and creativity, they involve different techniques and processes.

4. What are the different types of cartoons? 

Cartoons encompass various genres and styles, including editorial cartoons, comic strips, animated films, webcomics, and graphic novels. Each type of cartoon serves a different purpose and audience, ranging from political commentary to entertainment for children.

5. How are editorial cartoons created? 

Editorial or political cartoons are created by cartoonists who use caricature and satire to comment on current events or social issues. They typically start with a concept or idea and then sketch the illustration, often incorporating symbols or metaphors to convey their message.

6. What is the history of cartoons? 

The concept of cartoons dates back to the Middle Ages when they were preparatory drawings for works of art. In the 19th century, cartoons began to refer to humorous illustrations in newspapers and magazines, while in the early 20th century, they evolved into animated films. Over time, cartoons have become an integral part of popular culture, encompassing a wide range of styles and mediums.

7. What skills are required to create cartoons? 

Creating cartoons requires artistic skill, creativity, and technical expertise. Cartoonists must understand composition, storytelling, and character design, while animators must be proficient in animation software, motion graphics, and storytelling techniques.

8. How have cartoons evolved? 

Cartoons have evolved from simple drawings to dynamic multimedia experiences. Technology advancements have led to innovations in animation techniques, allowing animators to create more sophisticated and immersive narratives. Cartoons’ subject matter and themes have diversified to reflect changing societal norms and cultural trends.

9. What impact do cartoons have on society? 

Cartoons significantly impact society, influencing public opinion, shaping cultural attitudes, and providing commentary on current events. Editorial cartoons, in particular, play a crucial role in political discourse by challenging authority and highlighting social issues. Additionally, cartoons serve as entertainment and escapism, bringing joy and laughter to audiences of all ages.

10. Where can I find cartoons to watch or read? 

Cartoons are widely available across various platforms, including television, streaming services, newspapers, magazines, and online websites. Whether you’re interested in classic comic strips, animated films, or webcomics, there are countless options to explore and enjoy in cartoons.