1. a stock character in Italian comedy, typically portrayed as a boastful but cowardly villain
Usage: theatrical; historical
2. a rascal or scamp; a mischievous person
Usage: informal

Examples

• The actor played Scaramouche with exaggerated gestures and comic timing.
• In commedia dell’arte, Scaramouche was known for his black mask and cowardly nature.
• The little scaramouche ran through the garden, causing mischief wherever he went.
• She called her brother a scaramouche after he played another prank on their parents.
• The novel’s villain was a modern scaramouche, all bluster but no real courage.
• Traditional Italian theater featured Scaramouche as a recurring comedic character.