Spillane
Definition
Proper noun * Frank Morrison Spillane (1918–2006): An American author best known for writing a series of hard-boiled detective novels featuring the character Mike Hammer. His work is a prominent example of mid-20th century pulp fiction.
Usage Notes
- "Spillane" is used almost exclusively as a proper noun to refer to the author himself.
- It is not typically used as a common noun. When used, it often appears in contexts discussing detective fiction, literary history, or popular culture of the 20th century.
Examples of Usage
- Proper noun:
- The gritty realism of Spillane's novels defined a genre.
- Many critics initially dismissed Spillane, but his books were enormously popular with readers.
- An exhibit at the library featured first editions by Spillane and other pulp writers.
Advanced Usage
- The name "Spillane" can be used metonymically to represent a style of writing characterized by violence, tough-guy protagonists, and a cynical view of society.
- The film's dialogue had a definite Spillane quality to it.
Variants and Related Words
- Spillanesque (adjective): Resembling or characteristic of the style or themes found in Mickey Spillane's novels.
- The novel's Spillanesque hero navigated a world of corruption.
Synonyms
- Author (general)
- Novelist (general)
- Crime writer (specific)
Notes on Meaning
This word has a single, specific referent: the writer Mickey Spillane. It does not have multiple general meanings. Its usage is primarily biographical and literary.
Noun
-
United States writer of popular detective novels (born in 1918)
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