Word of the day: Harlequin

Harlequin

[HAHR-lə-kwin]

Part of speech: adjective

Origin: Italian, 16th century

In varied colors; variegated.

Examples of harlequin in a sentence

"The leaves on the plant were a harlequin patchwork of dark greens and pale yellows."

"Rainbow grasshoppers are distinguishable by their bright harlequin patterns."

[About Harlequin

“Harlequin” is based on the Old French name “Herlequin” or “Hellquin,” the mythical leader of a group of demon horsemen.

Did you Know?

Harlequin is a trickster-jester character in Italian “commedia dell’arte,” a style of theater featuring masked characters playing specific stock roles. Harlequin was the best known of a number of comic, servant characters called “Zanni.” Notably, Harlequin is easily recognized in his checkered outfit, which gives rise to the adjective “harlequin.”