Harlequin: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to a character in traditional Italian theatre, often depicted in a colorful diamond-patterned costume. It can also be used more generally to describe anything that is colorful or variegated.

• The harlequin entertained the audience with acrobatic tricks.
• Her dress was a harlequin of bright colors.

A term often used to describe someone who is acting silly or making others laugh. It can be used both in a literal sense for a performer in a circus, or metaphorically for someone being foolish. It can sometimes be used negatively.

• The children loved the clown at the birthday party.
• Stop being such a clown and take your work seriously.

Historically, a jester was a professional entertainer in a royal court, known for making jokes and performing tricks. Used more broadly, it can describe anyone who plays the role of making others laugh, particularly through wit.

• The king's jester was the highlight of the evening's entertainment.
• In any group, there's always that one person who acts as the jester.

Used to describe someone whose behavior is ridiculous or stupid, often in a contemptuous or mocking way. This term has a more negative connotation.

• He’s such a buffoon; he always manages to mess things up.
• The character was portrayed as a buffoon, providing comic relief in the story.

Harlequin is often used to describe a character in comedic theatre or literature, known for wearing brightly colored clothes and performing playful antics.

• The harlequin made the audience laugh with his mischievous tricks and acrobatic stunts

A pantomime character is typically used in British theatre, often during holiday seasons, and involves exaggerated costumes and performances, often without spoken dialogue.

• In the Christmas play, the children were delighted by the antics of the pantomime character

This term refers specifically to one of the characters from the traditional Italian form of theatre called commedia dell'arte, which includes stock characters like Harlequin, Pantalone, and Colombina.

• Harlequin, a commedia dell'arte character, is known for his cleverness and colorful costume