French translation of harlequin is 
arlequin

Meaning of "harlequin" in English

The word "harlequin" historically refers to a comic character from Italian theater known for a diamond-patterned costume, a mask, and a playful, mischievous demeanor. In modern contexts, it can also describe something that is multicolored or varied, resembling the vibrant costume of the harlequin character. Beyond the theatrical reference, "harlequin" can be used metaphorically to describe someone or something that is lively, colorful, or diverse in nature, often adding an element of intrigue or unpredictability to a situation or appearance.

Meaning of "arlequin" in French

In French, "arlequin" refers to the same comic character from Italian commedia dell'arte, known for his colorful, patchwork costume, and playful antics. The term embodies characteristics of wit, humor, and agility, often associated with the servant character who used cleverness and trickery to navigate social situations. In literature and art, "arlequin" symbolizes a lively and vibrant figure, and the term can also be used to describe anything variegated or multicolored. The use of "arlequin" in French culture often mirrors its Italian roots, reflecting artistic and theatrical traditions.

Pronunciation of "harlequin" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [ˈhɑːr.lɪ.kwɪn]

Pronunciation Variations: In British English, the pronunciation might focus slightly more on the "hɑːr" sound, while American English often places emphasis on the "ɪ" sound in the second syllable. Regional accents can affect the vowel sounds, but the overall structure remains similar.

Pronunciation of "arlequin" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [aʁ.lə.kɛ̃]

Pronunciation Variations: French pronunciation emphasizes the nasal sound in "kɛ̃", typical of French phonetics. Different regional accents in France might affect the sharpness of the "ʁ" or the openness of the "a", though standard pronunciation remains consistent across the country.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The harlequin's costume was a dazzling patchwork of colors.
   (Le costume de l'arlequin était un patchwork éblouissant de couleurs.)

2. She decorated her room with harlequin patterns.
   (Elle a décoré sa chambre avec des motifs arlequin.)

3. The play featured a charismatic harlequin who entertained the crowd.
   (La pièce a présenté un arlequin charismatique qui a diverti la foule.)

4. His performance was as colorful as a harlequin's garb.
   (Sa prestation était aussi colorée que l'habit d'un arlequin.)

5. The novel's plot twists were as unpredictable as a harlequin's antics.
   (Les rebondissements du roman étaient aussi imprévisibles que les pitreries d'un arlequin.)

6. At the carnival, he dressed as a traditional harlequin.
   (Au carnaval, il s'est déguisé en arlequin traditionnel.)

7. The garden displayed a harlequin array of blooms.
   (Le jardin affichait une mosaïque de fleurs arlequin.)

8. She laughed with the carefree spirit of a harlequin.
   (Elle riait avec l'esprit insouciant d'un arlequin.)

9. The artist's use of color was reminiscent of a harlequin's vibrancy.
   (L'utilisation des couleurs par l'artiste rappelait la vivacité d'un arlequin.)

10. The harlequin's mask hid a multitude of expressions.
    (Le masque de l'arlequin cachait une multitude d'expressions.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "harlequin" in English

Synonyms: jester, joker, buffoon, clown, mime, comedian, performer, prankster, trickster, entertainer.

Antonyms: serious, somber, dull, grave, monotonous, sober, plain, straightforward, solemn, uninspiring.

Similar Words: motley, colorful, variegated, lively, vibrant, multicolored, theatrical, capricious, whimsical, diverse.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "arlequin" in French

Synonyms: farceur, baladin, bouffon, comédien, bateleur, plaisantin, clown, mime, jongleur, saltimbanque.

Antonyms: -.

Similar Words: bariolé, multicolore, vivant, fantaisiste, chamarré, coloré, bigarré, théâtral, divers, animé.

Disclaimer: These examples may contain sensitive content that does not reflect the opinions or policies of Translate.com, or its company Translate LLC. We welcome feedback: report an example sentence to our team.