creature feature: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘creature feature’ mean?

The idiom "creature feature" refers to a movie or TV show that prominently features fictional creatures, such as monsters or aliens. It is often used to describe a genre of entertainment that focuses on thrilling or scary stories involving these creatures.

Idiom Explorer

Unveiling the Enigma

The idiom "creature feature" is a term used to describe a genre of movies that prominently feature fictional creatures or monsters. This idiom is commonly used in the United States and has roots in the film industry and popular culture.

The term "creature feature" became popular in the mid-20th century. It is often associated with horror and science fiction films. These movies gained significant popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. B-movies and drive-in theaters played host to many such films.

The phrase itself combines the words "creature" and "feature." "Creature" refers to the fictional beings depicted in the movies, and "feature" highlights their prominent role in the films. The term draws attention to the allure and excitement that these creatures bring to the screen. It often appeals to people's fascination with the unknown and the macabre.

The idiom "creature feature" has since extended beyond movies. It is now commonly used to refer to any form of media or entertainment that prominently showcases fictional creatures or monsters. This includes books, television series, video games, and even theme park attractions.

Furthermore, "creature feature" has become a cultural reference point in the United States. It is often used in casual conversations and media discussions to evoke a sense of nostalgia or excitement associated with these types of entertainment. The idiom has also been utilized in marketing efforts for new movies or TV shows that feature fictional creatures. This aims to tap into the existing familiarity and excitement surrounding this genre.

Horror movies often feature supernatural creatures and monsters.

The idiom "creature of the night" is related to "creature feature." It refers to someone who is active or more alive during the night. In the context of movies, it can be used to describe a character who is a nocturnal creature, such as a vampire or werewolf. These types of creatures are often featured in "creature feature" films, adding to the excitement and mystery of the genre.

The idiom "creature comfort" is also related to "creature feature." It refers to something that provides physical or emotional comfort to a person. In the context of movies, it can be used to describe the satisfaction or comfort that viewers derive from watching "creature feature" films. These films often provide escapism and entertainment, allowing people to forget their worries and immerse themselves in a thrilling and fantastical world.

The idiom "creature of habit" is another related phrase. It refers to a person who likes to stick to familiar routines and habits. In the context of movies, it can be used to describe the audience of "creature feature" films who are drawn to the familiar tropes and themes of the genre. These films often follow a formula or structure that fans of the genre find comforting and enjoyable.

The idiom "horror show" is also related to "creature feature." It refers to something that is frightening, shocking, or disturbing. In the context of movies, it can be used to describe the intense and scary nature of "creature feature" films. These films often rely on suspense, jump scares, and visual effects to create a sense of horror and unease.

The idiom "featherless biped" is another related phrase. It refers to a human being, as humans are characterized by being bipedal and lacking feathers. In the context of movies, it can be used to highlight the contrast between fictional creatures or monsters and human beings. "Creature feature" films often explore the boundary between the human and the monstrous, blurring the lines and challenging our perceptions of what it means to be human.

The idiom "creature of the night" captures the mysterious and alluring nature of "creature feature" films, where nocturnal creatures come to life on the screen. The idiom "creature comfort" reflects the satisfaction and comfort that viewers derive from watching these films, providing an escape from reality. The idiom "creature of habit" speaks to the dedicated fan base of "creature feature" films who appreciate the familiar tropes and themes. The idiom "horror show" describes the intense and unsettling nature of these films, providing thrills and scares. Finally, the idiom "featherless biped" highlights the contrast between the fantastical creatures and the human characters in these films, blurring the lines between the two.

The idiom "creature feature" is entrenched in American culture. It originally referred to a specific genre of movies prominently featuring fictional creatures or monsters. However, over time, its meaning has expanded to encompass various forms of media and entertainment. The enduring fascination with these fantastical creatures is reflected in the continued use of the idiom in conversations and marketing efforts. The concept of the "creature feature" continues to evolve and adapt, providing endless entertainment possibilities for a well-informed audience.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "creature feature" can be used in a sentence:

  1. The horror movie marathon on TV last night was full of creature features.
  2. She's not a fan of scary movies, especially creature features.
  3. We decided to watch a classic creature feature for our movie night.

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