Definition

Noun: 1. A grotesque black doll: A golliwogg is a type of doll, characterized by black skin, exaggerated facial features (such as large white-rimmed eyes and red lips), and wild, frizzy hair. Historically, it was a popular children's toy and book character, but it is now widely recognized as a racist caricature and stereotype of Black people.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The antique shop had a collection of old toys, including a faded golliwogg.
  • She found her grandmother's childhood golliwogg in the attic.
  • Many museums now contextualize the golliwogg as a harmful historical artifact.

Advanced Usage

• The term "golliwogg" is almost exclusively used in a historical or critical context today. Its use is highly sensitive and often considered offensive, as it refers directly to the racist caricature.
• It is sometimes discussed in academic or social contexts concerning the history of racism in popular culture, toys, and literature.

Variants and Related Words

• Golliwog (noun): A common alternative spelling with the same meaning.
• Golly (noun, informal/offensive): A shortened, colloquial form.

Synonyms

• Caricature (noun): A representation that exaggerates features for comic or critical effect.
• Stereotype (noun): A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.

Important Note on Usage

• The word "golliwogg" and the doll it represents are considered deeply offensive and racially insensitive. They perpetuate harmful stereotypes. It is strongly advised to avoid using this term outside of specific historical, academic, or critical discussions where its racist nature is explicitly addressed and condemned.

Noun

1. a grotesque black doll