charivari

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   historical: a noisy mock serenade made with pots, pans, and other instruments, traditionally directed at newlyweds or a disapproved couple

   The villagers staged a charivari outside the newlyweds' house after dark.

2. 2
   noun

   any discordant clamor, racket, or confused hubbub

   The children produced a charivari by striking the desk, fender, and fire irons.

Borrowed from French charivari, the name of a noisy mock serenade, probably through Late Latin caribaria from Greek karebaria, 'headache' or literally 'heavy head.' English retained the historical ritual sense and broadened the word to any discordant racket or hubbub.

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