WordGarden.iocameo
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈæmɪˌəʊ/
US
- /ˈkæmiˌoʊ/
Meanings
Noun
a brief appearance by a well-known person in a film, show, or performance
a small carved relief image, often in a contrasting layered stone or shell
Verb
to make a brief appearance in a film, show, or performance
Beyond the definition
A cameo isn't just a pretty stone! Originally, it referred to a small carving—often a gem or shell—cut in relief so the raised design stands out against a contrasting background. Think of the delicate layers in a gemstone. Today, however, "cameo" most often describes a brief, memorable appearance by a famous person within a larger work. Think of a celebrity making a quick cameo in a movie; they aren't the star, but their brief presence adds a spark of excitement! It can also describe a small but vivid detail that feels especially distinctive or representative—for instance, "the building's ornate doorway was a beautiful cameo of Victorian architecture."
The word comes from the Italian cammeo, referring to the carved gemstones popular during the Renaissance. Just like those intricate carvings, a modern cameo appearance is often small but carefully crafted for maximum impact.
The word "cameo" has a fascinating history and several layers of meaning. Originally, a cameo was a specific type of jewelry: a carved gem or shell where a raised relief design contrasts with a deeper-colored background. Think of layered agate meticulously sculpted to create a tiny portrait or scene. These were highly prized in ancient Rome and throughout the Renaissance as symbols of wealth, artistry, and status.
Over time, "cameo" evolved beyond the world of jewelry. In modern contexts, it most commonly refers to a "cameo role"—a brief appearance by a well-known person in a film, television show, or play. It's not a starring role; it is more like a delightful surprise for the audience! For example, director Alfred Hitchcock was famous for making quick cameos in his own films. These appearances are often self-referential or serve as playful nods to dedicated fans.
Beyond the screen, "cameo" can also describe a literary sketch or a physical element that stands out as particularly representative of a larger whole. You might say, "The abandoned factory was a cameo of the town's industrial past," meaning it serves as a striking, concentrated reminder of a bygone era. Whether you're admiring an antique piece of jewelry, spotting a favorite actor in a surprise role, or recognizing a symbolic element within a scene, "cameo" always refers to something small but significant—a memorable detail that adds depth and character to the bigger picture.
Examples
- 1
TV appearance
The singer has a cameo in the last episode.
- 2
Film appearance
The director makes a cameo appearance near the end of the film.
- 3
Surprise guest
Fans were excited by a surprise cameo from one of the original actors.
- Patterncameo from + person
a brief appearance by that person
- 4
Celebrity appearances
The comedy is full of celebrity cameos.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Jewelry
She wore an old cameo brooch with a woman's face carved into it.
See also
Similar
- guest appearance
- guest spot
- walk-on
Shades of meaning
- bit part
- special appearance
- uncredited appearance
Contrast
- starring role
- supporting role
Used with (collocations)
- make a cameo
- cameo appearance
- cameo role
- celebrity cameo
Explore
- casting
- stunt casting
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- cameonoun
Forms
- cameospluralnoun