1. a grotesque or ridiculous character; a buffoon or clown
Usage: often capitalized when referring to the stock character from Italian commedia dell'arte; literary or formal usage
2. a short, squat puppet or doll with a hooked nose and hump back, traditionally used in puppet shows
Usage: historical; often capitalized

Examples

• The politician's exaggerated gestures made him look like a punchinello on stage.
• In the old puppet theater, Punchinello was the most beloved character among children.
• He played the role of a punchinello in the commedia dell'arte performance.
• The actor's slapstick humor turned him into a punchinello that the audience both laughed at and pitied.
• Antique Punchinello dolls are now valuable collectibles for puppet enthusiasts.