Main Entry: cam·eo

Pronunciation: \ˈka-mē-ˌō\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural cam·eos

Etymology: Middle English camew, from Middle French camau, kamaheu

Date: 15th century

1 a : a gem carved in relief; especially : a small piece of sculpture on a stone or shell cut in relief in one layer with another contrasting layer serving as background b : a small medallion with a profiled head in relief
2 : a carving or sculpture made in the manner of a cameo
3 : a usually brief literary or filmic piece that brings into delicate or sharp relief the character of a person, place, or event
4 : a small theatrical role usually performed by a well-known actor and often limited to a single scene; broadly : a brief appearance or role

— cameo adjective

— cameo transitive verb