as in clown
a comically dressed performer (as at a circus) who entertains with playful tricks and ridiculous behavior among the court entertainers waiting to enter the grand hall were masked harlequins in brightly colored pantaloons

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of harlequin 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 But this harlequin moll can’t match Joker’s lunacy as either lawbreaker or musician. Armond White, National Review, 29 Nov. 2024 The doll, which is called the Witch Weaver, wears flared bell-bottoms, a gossamer harlequin blouse, gold waistcoat and crystal headpiece — taking inspiration from Reed’s signature design codes, personal style and even Lady Gaga. Violet Goldstone, WWD, 21 Nov. 2024 These days, costumes range from fairy-tale characters, clowns and harlequins to Napoleonic soldiers and celebrities. Matt Ralphs, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for harlequin
Recent Examples of Synonyms for harlequin
clown
Noun
  • The sheriff threatens to arrest Morticia on account of aiding and abetting a murderer, but Gomez points out that these clowns (the cops) abandoned Nevermore to protect Normies at Pilgrim World.
    Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 3 Sep. 2025
  • While the film wasn't a hit with critics or audiences, Gaga nonetheless had some eye-popping looks on the press tour, sporting bold red hair and clown-like attire to evoke the comic chaos of her character.
    EW.com, EW.com, 31 Aug. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Harlequin.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harlequin. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on harlequin

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!