pantomime
n.n. a type of traditional British theater show for children that uses a lot of funny acting, music, and colorful costumes. It often tells a story from a fairy tale with a happy ending.
n. a traditional form of British theatrical entertainment for children, characterized by slapstick comedy, audience participation, and the use of music and dance. Often features a moralistic narrative from a fairy tale.
The children love the pantomime every Christmas.
The local theater is preparing a new pantomime based on the classic tale of Cinderella.
While the pantomime has evolved over centuries, it remains a vital part of the British cultural calendar, blending high-energy physical comedy with a familiar narrative structure that appeals to all ages.
First appears c. 1606, from Latin pantomīmus, from Ancient Greek παντόμιμος (pantómimos), from πᾶς (pâs, “each, all”) + μιμέομαι (miméomai, “I mimic”). The verbal form first appears c. 1768.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 18, 2026