harlequin

noun

har·​le·​quin ˈhär-li-k(w)ən 

1

a

capitalized : a character in comedy and pantomime with a shaved head, masked face, variegated tights, and wooden sword

b

: buffoon

2

a

: a variegated pattern (as of a textile)

b

: a combination of patches on a solid ground of contrasting color (as in the coats of some dogs)

Illustration of harlequin

• Harlequin

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History of Harlequin

When capitalized, Harlequin refers to a stock character of the Italian commedia dell’arte and subsequently the pantomime traditions of other nations. The character began in the 16th century as an unscrupulous comic servant, later became a faithful valet involved in amorous exploits, and ultimately evolved into a clownlike figure engaging in good-natured joking and amusing tricks. Harlequin’s outfit began as peasant clothes covered in bright patches and developed into a tight-fitting costume with bright triangles and diamond shapes and a black half-mask. Harlequin was the principal character of pantomime slapstick plays known as harlequinades.

Synonyms

• buffo
• buffoon
• clown
• zany

Examples of harlequin in a Sentence

among the court entertainers waiting to enter the grand hall were masked harlequins in brightly colored pantaloons

Recent Examples on the Web

Learn more about management options and which food plants are most susceptible to this insect in our harlequin bug on vegetables web page. —Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 16 Apr. 2025

Once infused with the diabolical spirit, the guide is transformed into a buffoon, complete with a harlequin outfit—a mad joker and a dancing fool who does a little jig to the sound of a jazz trio. —Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 11 Mar. 2025

These days, costumes range from fairy-tale characters, clowns and harlequins to Napoleonic soldiers and celebrities. —Matt Ralphs, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Oct. 2024

Pity the poor actor who has to co-star opposite a 150-pound harlequin Great Dane. —Peter Rainer, Christian Science Monitor, 3 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Italian arlecchino, from Middle French Helquin, a demon

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

harlequin

noun

har·​le·​quin ˈhär-li-k(w)ən 

1

: clown entry 1 sense 2

2

: a pattern of usually diamond-shaped figures of different colors

harlequin adjective