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
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Recent Examples of harlequin
The role of Apollo goes to a magnificent fellow named Bing, a harlequin Great Dane with one brown eye, one blue, and an exceptionally expressive pair of eyebrows.
—
Sheri Linden, New York Times, 27 Mar. 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
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
See All Example Sentences for harlequin
Sheri Linden, New York Times, 27 Mar. 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
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
See All Example Sentences for harlequin
Recent Examples of Synonyms for harlequin
clown
Noun
-
An evil clown turned serial killer who terrorizes a fictional New York City borough during Halloween and Christmas will join a maniacal lineup of murderers, mutants and monsters during this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood.—
Brady MacDonald,
Oc Register,
10 July 2025
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White-stripe nails Circus-stripe nails Just like a striped Big Top tent, this circus set is complete with stars and clowns.—
Dominic Cadogan,
Glamour,
9 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Harlequin.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harlequin. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.
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