A skeuomorph (also spelled skiamorph, /ˈskjuːəˌmɔːrf, ˈskjuːoʊ-/)[1][2] is a derivative object that retains ornamental design cues (attributes) from structures that were necessary in the original.[3] Skeuomorphs are typically used to make something new feel familiar in an effort to speed understanding and acclimation. They employ elements that, while essential to the original object, serve no pragmatic purpose in the new system. Examples include pottery embellished with imitation rivets reminiscent of similar pots made of metal[4] and a software calendar that imitates the appearance of binding on a paper desk calendar.[5]
- ^ "Skeuomorph". Lexico UK English Dictionary. Oxford University Press. Archived from the original on 2019-12-27.
- ^ "Skeuomorph". Dictionary.com Unabridged (Online). n.d. Retrieved 2016-01-22.
- ^ Basalla, George (1988). The Evolution of Technology. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press. p. 107. ISBN 0-521-29681-1.
- ^ "Skeuomorph". dictionary.com. Archived from the original on 15 October 2013. Retrieved 7 December 2012.
- ^ Thompson, Clive (2012-01-31). "Clive Thompson on Analog Designs in the Digital Age". Wired. Vol. 20, no. 2. Wired Magazine. Archived from the original on 22 December 2012. Retrieved 7 December 2012.