Word of the Day

: October 25, 2007

vaudeville

noun VAUD-vil

What It Means

1 : a light often comic theatrical piece frequently combining pantomime, dialogue, dancing, and song

2 : stage entertainment consisting of various acts (as performing animals, acrobats, comedians, dancers, or singers)

vaudeville in Context

Andrew's interest in vaudeville can be traced to his grandparents, who met as performers in the 1920s.

Did You Know?

In the 15th century, several amusing songs became popular across France. These songs were said to have been written by a man named Olivier Basselin who lived in the valley of the river Vire in northwest France. The songs eventually became known as "chansons de vau-de-Vire," meaning "songs of the valley of Vire." Other people began writing and performing similar songs, and as this form of entertainment became more widespread, the link to vau-de-Vire was forgotten. The nickname was shortened to one word, "vaudevire." As the phenomenon spread beyond France, further changes in pronunciation and spelling shifted "vaudevire" into "vaudeville." The meaning also broadened to include humorous performances and variety shows.

*Indicates the sense illustrated in the example sentence.