hockney: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Artistic, Academic
Quick answer
What does “hockney” mean?
The surname of the renowned English painter, draughtsman, printmaker, stage designer, and photographer, David Hockney (born 1937), known for his contributions to the Pop Art movement of the 1960s.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The surname of the renowned English painter, draughtsman, printmaker, stage designer, and photographer, David Hockney (born 1937), known for his contributions to the Pop Art movement of the 1960s.
A term used to describe works, styles, or characteristics reminiscent of David Hockney's art, often involving vibrant color, swimming pools, Los Angeles landscapes, or explorations of perspective and technology (e.g., photo collages, iPad drawings).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant linguistic differences in usage. The referent (David Hockney) is equally recognized in both cultures, though he is a British artist with strong associations to California.
Connotations
In the UK, connotations are tied to national artistic pride and his Yorkshire roots. In the US, connotations are often linked to his iconic depictions of California and the Los Angeles art scene.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in British media and art criticism, but widely understood in American artistic and academic circles.
Grammar
How to Use “hockney” in a Sentence
[Proper noun] as modifier: a Hockney painting[Possessive] + artwork: Hockney's most famous workVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hockney” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The gallery has a definite Hockney vibe.
- It was a very Hockney pool scene.
American English
- Her work has a Hockney-like quality.
- The colors were totally Hockney.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the art market, auction houses, and gallery sales ('The Hockney fetched a record price').
Academic
Used in art history, criticism, and cultural studies to analyze post-war British art, Pop Art, and techniques of representation.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation unless discussing art, exhibitions, or cultural news.
Technical
Used in conservation, art authentication, and museology when referring to specific works or materials used by the artist.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hockney”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hockney”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hockney”
- Using 'Hockney' as a common adjective without capitalisation (incorrect: 'a hockney feel'; correct: 'a Hockney-esque feel').
- Misspelling as 'Hockey'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is primarily a proper noun (surname). Its use as a descriptive term ('Hockney-esque') is niche and confined to artistic contexts.
No. While associated with vibrant color, it specifically refers to the style, themes, or techniques characteristic of David Hockney's work. Overgeneralisation dilutes its meaning.
One of his most iconic works is 'A Bigger Splash' (1967), depicting a swimming pool and a modernist house in Los Angeles.
Yes. 'Hockney' as an attributive noun directly references the artist or his work (e.g., a Hockney print). 'Hockney-esque' is an adjective describing something that resembles his style but is not by him.
The surname of the renowned English painter, draughtsman, printmaker, stage designer, and photographer, David Hockney (born 1937), known for his contributions to the Pop Art movement of the 1960s.
Hockney is usually formal, artistic, academic in register.
Hockney: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɒkni/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhɑːkni/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A Bigger Splash (title of a famous Hockney painting, sometimes used idiomatically to reference a major impact)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'hockey' player taking a break by a bright blue swimming pool in LA, painting instead of playing—this is Hockney.
Conceptual Metaphor
ARTIST AS STYLE: The artist's name becomes a conceptual container for a set of aesthetic qualities (color, light, subject matter).
Practice
Quiz
In which artistic movement is David Hockney most commonly associated?