cartoon

Originally, a full-size drawing used for transferring a design to a painting, tapestry, or other large work. Cartoons were used from the 15th century by fresco painters and stained-glass artists. In the 19th century the term acquired its popular meaning of a humorous drawing or parody. Cartoons in that sense are used today to convey political commentary, editorial opinion, and social comedy in newspapers and magazines. The greatest early figure is William Hogarth, in 18th-century Britain. In 19th-century France, Honor introduced accompanying text that conveyed his characters' unspoken thoughts. Britain's became the foremost 19th-century venue for cartoons; in the 20th century set the American standard. A Pulitzer Prize for editorial cartooning was established in 1922. See also caricature; comic strip.

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