arlecchino
/ar.lekˈki.no/masculine
In Italian, harlequin is arlecchino.
Arlecchino is a masculine noun referring to a pantomime fool. It can also be used figuratively as an adjective to describe something that is brightly colored or characterized by a chaotic variety of colors, similar to a 'harlequin pattern' in English.
Meaning: pantomime fool (noun)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
As arlecchino is a masculine noun, any adjectives used to describe it must also be in the masculine form.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the third syllable: /ar.lekˈki.no/.
Did you know?
- The character Arlecchino is often associated with a batacchio, a wooden slapstick used to create a loud noise when hitting another character. This prop is the origin of the English term 'slapstick comedy'.
- The name Arlecchino is a diminutive of the name 'Hellequin', which stems from a folklore figure associated with much darker, more sinister spirits in medieval legends.
- In Italian culture, the phrase fare l'arlecchino can describe someone who changes their opinions or personality frequently to please others, acting as a social chameleon.
Examples in context
- Non c'è pietà qui, Pinocchio. Ti ho risparmiato. Arlecchino deve bruciare al tuo posto. Ho fame e la mia cena deve essere cucinata.There is no mercy here, Pinocchio. I have spared you. Harlequin must burn in your place. I am hungry and my dinner must be cooked.This sentence illustrates the use of arlecchino in a dramatic context.Tatoeba #3399132 by Guybrush88, translation #2724547 by Hybrid
- La performance di Arlecchino è stata eccezionale!The performance of the harlequin was exceptional!
- L'arlecchino è un personaggio della Commedia dell'Arte.Harlequin is a character from the Commedia dell'Arte.
- Il costume dell'arlecchino è molto colorato.The harlequin costume is very colorful.
Example conversation
Two friends are looking at an old theater poster.
- AlessandroGuarda, c'è un arlecchino su questo vecchio manifesto.Look, there is a harlequin on this old poster.
- SofiaSì, è un classico della commedia.Yes, it is a classic of the comedy.
- AlessandroTi piace il suo abito?Do you like his outfit?
- SofiaSì, è molto vivace e divertente.Yes, it is very lively and fun.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “harlequin” translations and entries arlecchino, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries arlecchino, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
