Adjective

A word used for situations in media- mostly in comics and television- where the concerns, criticisms and arguments of the audience are answered in the text itself to assuage any disbelief and therefore frustration a reader or viewer might possess. By underscoring points of possible contention, usually humorously, the suspension of disbelief is retained.

Often used to account for implausible developments, ridiculous motivations, bizarre twists and illogical situations, a lampshade can also cover obviously cribbed plot elements by having the author acknowledge through a character that "This is just like..."

A lampshade can be used to explain threads that may have lain dormant, and often prods at the fourth wall by having characters address the audience, or realities outside their own existence.

Also known as Spotlighting, sometimes as 'Cousin Larry Trick'. See TVTropes for more information.

Referring to women who are sexually or romantically attracted to other women. Applies to both lesbians and bisexual women, as it is only the same-sex attraction that matters, not any other attractions the women may have.

Originates from the Greek poet Sappho, a bisexual woman from the Isle of Lesbos, from which we get the term lesbian.

Wearing an oversized t-shirt and short athletic shorts that are hidden by the shirt. This gives the girl a sillouette similar to that of a lampshade. (Usually worn by college girls, esp. sorority girls)

A person who makes you feel less bright (more retarded) when you're around him/her.

A fun thing to put on your head at parties...

Makes a great hat. You should try it sometime!

Slang for a drug/ mental depressant in liquid form. Like codeine mixed with dirty sprite. Makes you feel numb or DIM... Kinda like a lampshade would do!