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Harlequin: meaning, definitions and examples

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harlequin

 

[ ˈhɑːrləkwɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

costume

A comic servant in old Italian comedy who is usually masked and dressed in a diamond-patterned costume.

Synonyms

buffoon, clown, jester

Examples of usage

  • He wore a harlequin outfit to the masquerade ball.
  • The harlequin character is known for his mischievous and playful nature.
Context #2 | Noun

literature

A stock character in traditional pantomime, typically masked and dressed in a diamond-patterned costume.

Synonyms

commedia dell'arte character, pantomime character

Examples of usage

  • The harlequin is often a central figure in pantomime performances.
  • The harlequin's costume is colorful and eye-catching.

Translations

Translations of the word "harlequin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arlequim

🇮🇳 हरलेक्विन

🇩🇪 Harlekin

🇮🇩 harlequin

🇺🇦 арлекін

🇵🇱 arlekin

🇯🇵 道化師 (どうけし)

🇫🇷 arlequin

🇪🇸 arlequín

🇹🇷 soytarı

🇰🇷 어릿광대 (eoritgwangdae)

🇸🇦 مهرج (muharraj)

🇨🇿 harlekýn

🇸🇰 harlekýn

🇨🇳 丑角 (chǒujiǎo)

🇸🇮 harlekin

🇮🇸 skopstæling

🇰🇿 арлекин

🇬🇪 არლეკინი (arleqini)

🇦🇿 harlekin

🇲🇽 arlequín

Etymology

The term 'harlequin' originated from the character Arlecchino in the Commedia dell'arte, a form of Italian theatre dating back to the 16th century. Arlecchino was known for his colorful diamond-patterned costume and mischievous behavior. Over time, the character of Harlequin evolved in different forms of entertainment, becoming a symbol of comedy and playfulness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,394 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.