Vocabulary Spotlight
Cameo
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A small but notable part, usually played by a well-known actor in a film; a piece of jewelry with a carved profile.
“The director himself made a brief cameo in the final scene of the movie.”
Pronunciation
[ˈkæmiˌoʊ]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Guest appearance
Cameo role
Walk-on
Feature
Antonyms
Lead role
Main character
Related Words
Relief (noun)
Word Origin
“Cameo” comes from the Italian *cammeo*, referring to a carved gem. Originally describing jewelry, it expanded to mean brief appearances or highlights in modern media.
Word Family
Noun: Cameo – A brief, notable appearance or a carved relief profile in jewelry.
Adjective: Cameo – Describing a brief appearance or small role by a famous person.
Mnemonics
Think of “cameo” as a “came-and-go” role—a quick, notable appearance that doesn’t linger.
Alternatively: Picture a “cameo” brooch with a face carved in relief—memorable but small, like a cameo role in a film.
Industry-specific Usage
Film and Television
In film and TV, a cameo is a brief, often humorous appearance by a well-known actor or celebrity, adding a memorable touch to the scene.
Jewelry
In jewelry, a cameo is a carved piece, typically showing a profile or scene, often used in brooches and pendants.
Theater
In theater, a cameo role is a brief but impactful appearance, usually by a notable figure, to captivate the audience without shifting the story’s focus.
In Context
A cameo, whether in jewelry or performance, provides a brief moment of interest, a small highlight within a larger context.
In entertainment, cameos are used to surprise or amuse audiences, creating a memorable experience without altering the main plot.
The original jewelry definition reflects the intricate design and artistry of cameos, representing a delicate yet memorable detail, much like a cameo appearance in film.