1. theatrical performances or entertainments featuring the character Harlequin, typically involving pantomime, comedy, and colorful costumes
Usage: theatrical; often historical
2. buffoonery or clownish behavior; comic antics
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• The theater company specialized in traditional harlequinades from the 18th century.
• Children laughed at the colorful harlequinades performed during the festival.
• The critic dismissed the politician’s speech as mere harlequinades.
• Victorian audiences flocked to see the elaborate harlequinades at Christmas.
• His constant harlequinades made it difficult to take him seriously.
• The commedia dell’arte troupe performed classic harlequinades in the town square.