Toonikkoon

Toonikkoon is a term sometimes used in informal discussions to describe a specific style of animation. It generally refers to animation that intentionally mimics the exaggerated, fluid, and often rubber-hose physics seen in early 20th-century cartoons. This style is characterized by characters with highly elastic limbs, the ability to contort into impossible shapes, and a disregard for realistic anatomy and motion. Think of the early works of Fleischer Studios or the visual language found in many modern internet memes and short-form animated content that deliberately draws inspiration from that era.

The term itself appears to be a portmanteau, combining "toon" (short for cartoon) with "ikoon" (possibly referring to an icon or a stylized representation). While not a formally recognized animation term within academic or industry circles, "toonikkoon" serves as a shorthand for this distinct aesthetic. Creators who employ this style often do so to evoke a sense of nostalgia, humor, or to leverage the inherent comedic potential of extreme exaggeration. The appeal lies in its visual dynamism and its departure from more conventionally realistic animation techniques.