vaudeville

Vaudeville (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does vaudeville mean?

A type of entertainment that was popular in the United States and Europe from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.
"The vaudeville show included jugglers, acrobats, magicians, singers and dancers."

Detailed Meaning of Vaudeville

Vaudeville shows typically consisted of a variety of short acts, including songs, dances, comedy skits, acrobatics, and magic tricks, among others. The acts were performed by a rotating cast of performers, and the shows were designed to appeal to a broad cross-section of the population, with something for everyone. Vaudeville was known for its diverse and eclectic mix of entertainment, and it was a major form of popular entertainment during its heyday.

Vaudeville shows were performed in large theaters, and many famous performers got their start in vaudeville, including comedians, singers, and actors who went on to have successful careers in Hollywood and on Broadway. Despite its popularity, vaudeville declined in the 1920s and 1930s as the movie industry grew and people's tastes in entertainment changed. Today, vaudeville is remembered as a colorful and important part of American and European cultural history, and its influence can still be seen in modern forms of entertainment such as variety shows and cabarets.

Example Sentences for Vaudeville

1. Vaudeville was a popular form of entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
2. The comedian got their start performing in vaudeville theaters around the country.
3. The singer's act combined elements of jazz, blues, and vaudeville.
4. The play was set in a vaudeville theater and featured a variety of musical and comedic performances.
5. The actress appeared in several vaudeville productions before making the leap to Hollywood.
6. The vaudeville circuit provided a platform for many aspiring performers to showcase their talents.

Origin and Etymology of Vaudeville

The noun 'vaudeville' has an etymology that traces back to French. It is derived from the Old French phrase 'val de ville,' which means 'valley of the town.' The term originally referred to a particular valley near a town where popular outdoor entertainment and performances took place. Over time, 'vaudeville' evolved to describe a form of variety entertainment that was popular in the United States and Europe from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Vaudeville shows typically featured a wide range of acts, including comedy, music, dance, magic, and more, making them highly entertaining and appealing to diverse audiences. The etymology of 'vaudeville' highlights its historical connection to the outdoor entertainment spaces where such performances initially took place, with the term eventually coming to represent the vibrant and eclectic world of variety entertainment, as reflected in its linguistic heritage.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun vaudeville:

variety show

tragedy

drama

seriousness

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More Usage Examples of Vaudeville

1. The art form of vaudeville influenced the development of modern-day stand-up comedy.
2. The vaudeville revival show brought classic songs and skits back to the stage for a new generation.
3. The vaudeville act was known for its elaborate costumes and over-the-top antics.
4. The decline of vaudeville theaters was due in part to the rise of radio and television as popular forms of entertainment.
5. The history of vaudeville in America is a fascinating and complex topic, with many colorful characters and stories.
6. Vaudeville shows featured a mix of comedy, music, and variety acts.
7. The vaudeville troupe traveled from town to town, entertaining audiences.
8. Vaudeville theaters were known for their lively and eclectic performances.
9. The golden age of vaudeville saw the rise of many famous comedians.
10. Vaudeville brought together performers of diverse talents and backgrounds.
11. The vaudeville circuit was a training ground for future Hollywood stars.
12. The Vaudeville era left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.
13. The vaudeville stage was a platform for showcasing unique talents.
14. Audiences flocked to vaudeville theaters for a night of laughter and music.
15. Vaudeville performers often had to adapt to different audiences.
16. The vaudeville era marked a shift in entertainment from minstrelsy.
17. The vaudeville circuit provided opportunities for up-and-coming artists.
18. Vaudeville brought together magicians, dancers, and ventriloquists.
19. The decline of vaudeville coincided with the rise of motion pictures.
20. Vaudeville theaters were known for their ornate and opulent designs.
21. The vaudeville stage was a place where talent and creativity shone.
22. The vaudeville star's career catapulted when she moved to Hollywood.
23. Vaudeville offered a diverse range of entertainment for all ages.
24. The vaudeville acts were carefully curated for maximum entertainment.
25. The vaudeville circuit was a reflection of the cultural diversity of its time.