Harlequin: meaning, definitions and examples

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harlequin

[ˈhɑːrləkwɪn ]

Definitions

^{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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
harlequin	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.
clown	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.
jester	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.
buffoon	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.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
harlequin	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
pantomime character	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
commedia dell'arte 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

Word

Description / Examples

harlequin

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

pantomime character

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

commedia dell'arte 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

Examples of usage

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

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the French 'harlequin', which itself likely comes from 'Hellequin', a character in medieval French theater.
Originally, the character was associated with the devil, giving the name a somewhat dark beginning before becoming a comic figure.
The transformation into a fun, playful character happened during the Italian commedia dell'arte insuring more lively traits.

Theater and Performance

Harlequin became a prominent figure in commedia dell'arte, a form of theater known for its improvisational style and colorful costumes.
In performances, the character often carries a wooden sword and is known for his cunning and agility, representing the clever servant.
The Harlequin’s costume is typically made up of geometric patterns and vibrant colors, making it easily recognizable and iconic in theater.

Visual Art

Many artists, including Picasso and Watteau, have depicted Harlequin in various forms, symbolizing the themes of love and disguise.
In visual culture, the character often represents the idea of the ‘trickster’ – someone who uses wit to navigate complex social situations.
Harlequin's distinctive costume has inspired fashion designers and artists alike, symbolizing the blending of art and life.

Pop Culture

The character has appeared in various films, cartoons, and novels, often embodying elements of humor and light-hearted mischief.
In modern interpretations, Harlequin has morphed into different roles, including a romantic figure in films and literature, showcasing versatility.
The character is famously seen in popular comic books, like the DC Comics character Harley Quinn, who draws inspiration from the original Harlequin.

Psychology

The Harlequin persona can reflect the theme of duality in human nature, showcasing contrasting personalities – fun yet complex.
In psychology, the character may be interpreted as a symbol of the inner clown, representing our desire to entertain and connect with others.
Harlequin's role often involves navigating social expectations, prompting discussions about identity and authenticity.

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

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.

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32391 musicale
32392 inflaming
32393 envelopment
32394 harlequin
32395 bling
32396 denigrating
32397 snored
...