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graffiti

noun

/grəfiːti/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of graffiti

The artistic expression, typically in the form of drawings, writings, or paintings, created on public surfaces such as walls, buildings, or public transportation.
"The artist used graffiti to express their frustration with societal norms."

Detailed meaning of graffiti

It is a form of visual communication that often emerges from the urban environment, serving as a platform for individuals to convey their messages, ideas, or emotions. Graffiti can range from simple tags or signatures to elaborate and intricate artworks, showcasing the creativity and skill of the artists involved. While graffiti is often associated with unauthorized or illegal acts, it has also gained recognition as a legitimate art form and a means of cultural expression. It can reflect social, political, or cultural issues, and has the power to transform urban landscapes, making them vibrant and thought-provoking.

Example sentences containing graffiti

1. The vibrant graffiti on the city walls added a splash of color to the otherwise dull streets.
2. Tourists flocked to the neighborhood to admire the famous graffiti murals.
3. The local government launched a campaign to clean up graffiti from public spaces.
4. The graffiti artist skillfully sprayed intricate designs onto the abandoned building.
5. The graffiti tag on the subway train caught the attention of passersby.
6. The museum showcased an exhibition featuring renowned graffiti artists from around the world.

History and etymology of graffiti

The noun 'graffiti' has a fascinating etymology rooted in Italian. It can be traced back to the Italian word 'graffio,' which means 'scratch' or 'incision.' In the context of art, 'graffio' referred to drawings or inscriptions made by scratching or incising a surface. This concept evolved into 'graffiti' in Italian, which continued to describe various forms of inscriptions or drawings made on surfaces, often in public spaces. During the Renaissance, 'graffiti' was used to describe the incised decorations found in ancient Roman ruins. As time passed, the term gained prominence and spread to other languages, including English, to denote the artistic expression created on public surfaces, such as walls, buildings, or public transportation. The etymology of 'graffiti' highlights its connection to the act of marking or scratching surfaces as a means of artistic expression in public settings.

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Further usage examples of graffiti

1. Despite its illegal nature, graffiti has gained recognition as a unique form of artistic expression.
2. The graffiti on the playground wall was an eyesore for the community.
3. The city commissioned a talented graffiti artist to beautify an underpass with a stunning mural.
4. The graffiti-covered alleyways became a haven for urban artists and creative expression.
5. Authorities implemented strict penalties to deter individuals from engaging in graffiti vandalism.
6. Vibrant graffiti adorned the urban walls, adding color to the city.
7. The alleyway was a canvas for street artists' graffiti masterpieces.
8. The subway car was covered in colorful graffiti tags.
9. The city encouraged public art, including graffiti murals.
10. She admired the intricate graffiti that covered the abandoned factory.
11. The graffiti artist's work conveyed powerful social messages.
12. The police were investigating vandalism related to graffiti.
13. The building's exterior was transformed into a graffiti gallery.
14. The neighborhood embraced graffiti as a form of self-expression.
15. Local artists gathered to create a collaborative graffiti mural.
16. The graffiti scene in the city was thriving with talent.
17. The graffiti on the bridge showcased the artist's creativity.
18. A debate arose over whether graffiti was art or vandalism.
19. The park's walls were a designated space for graffiti artists.
20. The museum hosted an exhibition featuring graffiti culture.
21. The graffiti depicted the city's vibrant and diverse culture.
22. The mayor launched a campaign to beautify with graffiti.
23. He was known for his distinctive signature in graffiti art.
24. Tourists flocked to see the famous graffiti alleys of the city.
25. Graffiti added an edgy character to the otherwise dull streets.