The adjective form of "grotesque" was first used in the early 17th century to describe the decorative art but is now used to describe anything bizarre, incongruous, or unusual.

Grotesque is an adjective often used to describe weird shapes and distorted forms such as Halloween masks. In art, performance, and literature, however, grotesque may also refer to something that …

GROTESQUE definition: odd or unnatural in shape, appearance, or character; fantastically ugly or absurd; bizarre. See examples of grotesque used in a sentence.

GROTESQUE definition: 1. strange and unpleasant, especially in a silly or slightly frightening way: 2. wrong or unfair…. Learn more.

Define grotesque. grotesque synonyms, grotesque pronunciation, grotesque translation, English dictionary definition of grotesque. adj. 1. Characterized by ludicrous, repulsive, or incongruous …

grotesque, n. & adj. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

Definition of grotesque adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Oct 13, 2025 · grotesque (comparative grotesquer or more grotesque, superlative grotesquest or most grotesque) Distorted and unnatural in shape or size; abnormal, especially in a hideous way. …

If someone or something is grotesque, they are very ugly. They tried to avoid looking at his grotesque face and his crippled body.

Use grotesque to describe things that are very strange and ugly in an unnatural way. If something "grosses you out," you can safely refer to it as grotesque.