1. Visually Disturbing or Unnatural: This is the most common meaning. It refers to something that is ugly, distorted, or bizarre in a way that is unsettling or repulsive. Think of a monster with disfigured features, a painting with exaggerated proportions, or a person with a bizarre costume.
2. Exaggerated or Ironic: Grotesque can also be used to describe something that is exaggerated to the point of being absurd or comical. This is often found in satire or humor.
3. Decorative Style: In art and architecture, "grotesque" refers to a specific style of decoration featuring fantastical creatures, humans with animal features, and other whimsical imagery. Think of the gargoyles on Gothic cathedrals.
Here are some examples of how "grotesque" can be used:
* "The monster in the movie was so grotesque that I had to cover my eyes." (Visually disturbing)
* "The politician's speech was a grotesque display of hypocrisy." (Exaggerated and ironic)
* "The Renaissance palace was decorated with grotesque figures in the arches." (Decorative style)
Ultimately, the meaning of "grotesque" depends on the context in which it is used.