noun
- the portrayal of professional wrestling events as real competition, rather than as staged entertainment; the suspension of disbelief maintained by wrestlers and promoters.
Usage: informal; professional wrestling
Examples
- Professional wrestlers maintain kayfabe by staying in character even outside the ring.
- The wrestler broke kayfabe when he admitted the match was predetermined.
- Fans appreciate wrestlers who respect kayfabe and keep the storylines believable.
- Kayfabe is essential to professional wrestling's entertainment value.
- Modern social media has made it harder for wrestlers to preserve kayfabe.