harlequin

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the agile, mischievous servant-clown of Italian commedia dell'arte, traditionally dressed in a diamond-patterned costume

   The harlequin bounded across the stage in a mask and a checked suit.

2. 2
   adj

   variegated with contrasting colors, patches, or diamond-shaped markings

   The bird's harlequin plumage made it easy to recognize.

3. 3
   verb

   to decorate or vary with contrasting patches or colors

   Sun and shadow harlequined the forest floor.

Simplified etymology

Harlequin comes through French from the earlier name Herlequin or Hellequin, the leader of a legendary troop of demonic horsemen. It may ultimately be related to Old English Herla cyning, “King Herla,” a mythical figure in early British legend sometimes identified with Woden; the name was later applied to the masked, diamond-costumed pantomime character.

Through French Harlequin from Italian Arlecchino, the name of a stock servant in commedia dell'arte. Earlier French forms named a demon or wild-hunt figure. The character's patchwork costume produced the color and pattern senses.

Topics

External links

• Google Images
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary