Harlequin: meaning, definitions and examples
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harlequin
[ ˈhɑːrləkwɪn ]
costume
A comic servant in old Italian comedy who is usually masked and dressed in a diamond-patterned costume.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He wore a harlequin outfit to the masquerade ball.
- The harlequin character is known for his mischievous and playful nature.
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
Word origin
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.