Main Entry:

vaude·ville

Pronunciation:

\ˈvȯd-vəl, ˈväd-, ˈvōd-, -ˌvil; ˈvȯ-də-, ˈvä-, ˈvō-\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

French, from Middle French, popular satirical song, alteration of vaudevire, from vau-de-Vire valley of Vire, town in northwest France where such songs were composed

Date:

1827

1 : a light often comic theatrical piece frequently combining pantomime, dialogue, dancing, and song 2 : stage entertainment consisting of various acts (as performing animals, comedians, or singers)

— vaude·vil·lian \ˌvȯd-ˈvil-yən, ˌväd-, ˌvōd-; ˌvȯ-də-, ˌvä-, ˌvō-\ noun or adjective