cameo

[kam-ee-oh]

noun

plural

cameos 

1. a technique of engraving upon a gem or other stone, as onyx, in such a way that an underlying stone of one color is exposed as a background for a low-relief design of another color.

2. a gem or other stone so engraved.

3. a literary sketch, small dramatic scene, or the like, that effectively presents or depicts its subject.

   His collection of poetry gives us cameos of contemporary life that we can all readily identify with.

4. Also called cameo role. a minor part played by a prominent performer or celebrity in a single scene of a motion picture, play, or television show.

verb (used without object)

1. to appear in a cameo role, as in a motion picture.

   She’s starred or cameoed in five films by the same director.

cameo

/ ˈkæmɪˌəʊ /

noun

1. 1. a medallion, as on a brooch or ring, with a profile head carved in relief

   2. ( as modifier )

      a cameo necklace

2. an engraving upon a gem or other stone of at least two differently coloured layers, such as sardonyx, so carved that the background is of a different colour from the raised design

3. a stone with such an engraving

4. 1. a single and often brief dramatic scene played by a well-known actor or actress in a film or television play

   2. ( as modifier )

      a cameo role

5. 1. a short literary work or dramatic sketch

   2. ( as modifier )

      a cameo sketch

Word History and Origins

Origin of cameo¹

First recorded in 1400–50; Middle English cameu, cemieus, chamehieux “engraved gem,” from Old French camaieu and Medieval Latin cammaeus, cammeus, camahūtus; further origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of cameo¹

C15: from Italian cammeo, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

After some “measured” thought, perhaps Putin will get a cameo.

From Los Angeles Times

Richard E. Grant makes a very creepy cameo, bringing an element of danger otherwise absent from the film.

From Los Angeles Times

Fisher retired as an England player four years ago after a career mainly spent as a flanker that spanned more than a decade and also included a cameo in bobsleigh.

From BBC

In his brief cameo against Leeds last week, Grealish was collecting the ball in deep positions when both wingers played deeper, and more centrally when the full-backs were to be found in wider areas.

From BBC

Striker Igor Jesus struck the post, while Hutchinson lifted a shot over the bar after an impressive late cameo.

From BBC

Related Words

• bracelet 
• brooch 
• costume 
• earring 
• gem 
• glass 
• gold 
• jewel 
• knickknack 
• necklace 
• ornament 
• pendant 
• silver 
• tiara 
• treasure 
• trinket