Lampshade

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈlæmp.ʃeɪd/

Origin

lamp + shade. The verb sense comes from the idea of making something more conspicuous by hanging a lampshade on it.

Full definition of lampshade

Noun

1. A cover over a lamp to either diffuse the light or to block it in certain directions so it doesn't cause glare by shining directly in one's eyes.

Verb

1. (narratology) To intentionally call attention to the improbable, incongruent, or clichéd nature of an element or situation featured in a work of fiction within the work itself.
• 2011, Corinne Gaston, "Adapted comic book flick has the ring, but no power", Daily Trojan, 21 June 2011:Only one short bit of humor is endearing, lampshading the ridiculousness of an eye-mask being able to conceal a superhero's identity.

Anagrams

• headlamps