clown in Chinese opera; disgraceful role
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
clown; comic character in Chinese opera
Refers specifically to the "Chou" role type in traditional Chinese opera (e.g., Peking opera), known for humor, wit, and sometimes foolishness. Can be male or female. 儿化音 (erhua) is common in spoken language: 丑角儿 (chǒujuér).
The clown role in Peking opera is often responsible for comic relief.
He specializes in the clown role and performs it vividly.
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As soon as this clown appeared on stage, he made the audience roar with laughter.
noun
disgraceful role; person who plays a shameful part in an event
derogatoryUsed metaphorically to describe someone who acts in a ridiculous, despicable, or embarrassing way in a real-life situation, often causing trouble or becoming a laughingstock.
In this scandal, he played an out-and-out disgraceful role.
His ridiculous justifications made him a laughingstock in everyone's eyes.
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The several disgraceful actors in this farce were all punished in the end.