Oscar

pronunciation

How to pronounce Oscar in British English: UK ['ɒskə(r)] word uk audio image

How to pronounce Oscar in American English: US ['ɑskər] word us audio image

Noun:

an annual award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for achievements in motion picture production and performance

Word Origin

Oscar: Oscar: [20] The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Hollywood has been awarding these golden statuettes annually since 1928, but at first they were not called Oscars. That name is said to have come about in 1931, when Margaret Herrick, a former secretary of the Academy, reputedly remarked that the Art Deco figurine reminded her of her ‘Uncle Oscar’ (Oscar Pierce, an American wheat and fruit grower). The name evidently struck a chord, and has been used ever since.

Oscar: masc. proper name, Old English Osgar "god's spear," from gar "spear" (see gar) + os "god" (only in personal names); see Asgard. The statuette awarded for excellence in film acting, directing, etc., given annually since, 1928, first so called 1936. The name is said to have sprung from a 1931 remark by Margaret Herrick, secretary at Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, on seeing the statuette: "He reminds me of my Uncle Oscar." Thus the award would be named for Oscar Pierce, U.S. wheat farmer and fruit grower.