What is Skeuomorphism?

I noticed every design is incorpating rounded edges in their rectangle shapes (yes, my website cards also). Today I Googled it and after reading some articles, I stumbled upon Skeuomorphism.

So, here I am noting down what is Skeuomorphism?

Skeuomorphism is a term most often used in graphical user interface design to describe interface objects that mimic their real-world counterparts in how they appear and/or how the user can interact with them. A well-known example is the recycle bin icon used for discarding files. Skeuomorphism makes interface objects familiar to users by using concepts they recognize.

In UI design, skeuomorphism had its boom with the advent of the first iPhone. Steve Jobs believed that UI elements should resemble real-life objects to increase ease of use. For example, the Notes app looked like a notepad. However, as users became more familiar with the iOS interface, Apple transitioned to flat design with fewer shadows and textures. Flat design stripped back skeuomorphic elements to essentials for faster loading and decluttered touchpoints.

References

Interaction Design