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.

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