Literary notes about Cute (AI summary)
The term "cute" in literature serves multiple functions, ranging from expressing affectionate admiration to carrying an ironic or even dismissive tone. In some narratives, it is a term of endearment—for instance, characters or animals are described as charming and appealing, as when a spirited individual or an endearing pet captures the reader’s heart [1] or when a kind little figure prompts tender remarks [2]. At times, the adjective is employed in a playful, almost colloquial fashion, suggesting a spirited cleverness or humorous quirkiness, as seen when a character’s impish behavior is noted with a certain sly wit [3] or when a clever trick is labeled as a “cute gimmick” [4]. Even in historical texts, the use of "cute" can have a formal ring, yet still imply a delicate, carefully curated aesthetic [5]. The versatility of the word allows it to capture both sincere admiration and subtle sarcasm, making it a favorite descriptor in a wide array of literary voices [6] [7] [8].
- He is rosy and plump and curly and cute; and he says such funny things and asks such comical questions.
— from Rilla of Ingleside by L. M. Montgomery - And she was a cute little thing, don't you know?
— from Sisters by Kathleen Thompson Norris - he thinks he’s so all-fired cute and smart.
— from Anne of Avonlea by L. M. Montgomery - And Van had figured out a pretty cute gimmick.
— from The Clue of the Gold Coin by Helen Wells - Me pinguem et nitidum bene curata cute vises.]
— from The Lives of the Twelve Caesars, Complete by Suetonius - He is so cute, it will be a shame if his dad never sees him.
— from Rilla of Ingleside by L. M. Montgomery - Then he began to get real cute, and held out his wee hands to me
— from Anne's House of Dreams by L. M. Montgomery - “An' you'd be surprised ter find how cute it works, ma'am, too,” maintained Nancy, with almost the eagerness of Pollyanna herself.
— from Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter
