vaudeville Definition
- 1a type of entertainment popular chiefly in the US in the early 20th century, featuring a mixture of specialty acts such as burlesque comedy and song and dance
- 2a theatrical genre of variety entertainment born in France at the end of the 19th century
Using vaudeville: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "vaudeville" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The vaudeville show was a hit with audiences across the country.
Example
Many famous performers got their start in vaudeville.
Example
Vaudeville was known for its mix of comedy, music, and dance.
vaudeville Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for vaudeville
- revue
- variety show
- music hall
Phrases with vaudeville
a series of theaters or venues that specialized in vaudeville shows
Example
The performers traveled the vaudeville circuit, performing in different cities every night.
the period of time when vaudeville was a popular form of entertainment, roughly from the late 1800s to the early 1930s
Example
Many people look back fondly on the vaudeville era as a time of great entertainment.
a person who performs in vaudeville shows, often specializing in a particular type of act
Example
Charlie Chaplin started his career as a vaudeville performer before becoming a movie star.
Origins of vaudeville
from French 'voix de ville', meaning 'voice of the city'
Summary: vaudeville in Brief
Vaudeville [ˈvɔːdəvɪl] is a type of variety entertainment that was popular in the US in the early 20th century. It featured a mix of comedy, music, and dance, and many famous performers got their start in vaudeville. The term comes from the French 'voix de ville,' meaning 'voice of the city.' Other phrases associated with vaudeville include 'vaudeville circuit' and 'vaudeville performer.'