An animated cartoon is a type of visual entertainment that uses a series of images or drawings to create the illusion of movement. These images are often colorful and stylized, appealing to both children and adults. Animated cartoons can be found in various formats, including television shows, films, and online videos. Typically, animated cartoons feature characters that can be animals, humans, or even inanimate objects. They often tell stories that entertain, educate, or convey messages. Popular examples of animated cartoons include Mickey Mouse, SpongeBob SquarePants, and The Simpsons.