Word
Definitions
01professional entertainer
A2 · Elementary Countable noun
n. a person whose job is to make people laugh, often by telling jokes on stage.
n. a professional entertainer who performs humorous routines, such as stand-up comedy, to amuse an audience.
“The comedian told a funny story about his dog that made the whole audience laugh.”
“The comedian's sharp observational humour resonated with the audience, leading to a sold-out tour across the country.”
Usage
Often used with 'stand-up' to describe a performer who speaks directly to the audience.
Antonyms
02a funny person
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Informal
n. someone you know who is very funny or likes to tell jokes.
n. an individual who is characteristically humorous or amusing in social situations.
“My brother is a real comedian; he always has a joke ready for every situation.”
“Every office has its resident comedian who lightens the mood during stressful deadlines with well-timed quips.”
Teaching tip
In this informal sense, it can sometimes be used sarcastically to mean someone is being annoying or silly.
03theatrical actor
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Theater Archaic
n. an actor who performs in plays.
n. a person who performs in theatrical productions; historically used for any actor but now restricted to those in comedic roles.
“In the old theatre, the comedians would travel from town to town to perform.”
“The troupe consisted of six comedians and three musicians, all of whom were well-versed in the traditions of the commedia dell'arte.”
Usage
In modern English, this sense is almost entirely replaced by 'actor' or 'comic actor'.
Etymology
From Latin cōmoedia + -an, perhaps modelled on Middle French comédien. By surface analysis, comedy + -an.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
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