noun pl. cameos -·os′

1. a carving in relief on certain stratified gems (sardonyx, agate, etc.) or shells so that the raised design, often a head in profile, is usually in a layer of different color from its background
2. a gem, shell, etc. so carved
3. 1. a minor but well-defined role in a play, film, etc., esp. when performed by a notable actor
   2. a fine bit of descriptive writing

Etymology: It cammeo < ML camaeus, camahutus; ult. < ? Pers chumāhän, agate