Pageant: meaning, definitions and examples

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pageant

 

[ ˈpeɪdʒənt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

beauty contest

A pageant is a public entertainment event, often featuring a competition in which individuals showcase their talents or beauty, usually in evening wear and swimwear. It often emphasizes social causes, culture, and often includes a talent segment. These events can range from local competitions to international contests such as Miss Universe. Pageants often highlight the poise and personality of the contestants, with judges assessing their overall presentation.

Synonyms

contest, exhibition, show

Examples of usage

  • She won the title in the annual beauty pageant.
  • The pageant attracted contestants from around the world.
  • He participated in a pageant to promote charitable causes.

Translations

Translations of the word "pageant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 concursos de beleza

🇮🇳 प्रतियोगिता

🇩🇪 Schönheitswettbewerb

🇮🇩 kontes kecantikan

🇺🇦 конкурс краси

🇵🇱 konkurs piękności

🇯🇵 美人コンテスト

🇫🇷 concours de beauté

🇪🇸 concurso de belleza

🇹🇷 güzellik yarışması

🇰🇷 미인 대회

🇸🇦 مسابقة جمال

🇨🇿 soutěž krásy

🇸🇰 súťaž krásy

🇨🇳 选美比赛

🇸🇮 lepotna tekmovanja

🇮🇸 fegurðarsamkeppni

🇰🇿 красу байқауы

🇬🇪 სილამაზის კონკურსი

🇦🇿 gözəllik müsabiqəsi

🇲🇽 concurso de belleza

Etymology

The word 'pageant' originates from the Middle English term 'pagent', which referred to a stage or show. This, in turn, is derived from the Old French 'pajent', meaning a play or spectacle. The roots of the word can be traced back to the Latin 'pāgīnus', meaning a stage or a platform where performances were held. Historically, pageants were elaborate shows or festivities that depicted narratives or important events, often involving a parade-like aspect. Over time, as societal interests shifted, the term became associated primarily with beauty contests and similar competitions, reflecting cultural values and standards of attractiveness during different eras.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,841, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.