Definition

Proper noun * Oliver Hardy: An American slapstick comedian, famous as the heavier, often pompous, and easily frustrated half of the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy. He was active in film from the silent era through the 1950s.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurel formed one of the most famous comedy teams in history.
  • In their films, Oliver Hardy would often break the fourth wall by looking directly at the camera in exasperation.
  • The comic timing between Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy was impeccable.

Advanced Usage

• "The Oliver Hardy character": Used to describe someone who exhibits a persona of pompous, self-important, yet ultimately hapless frustration, similar to Hardy's film persona.
  • He pulled an Oliver Hardy, straightening his tie and fuming silently after the simple plan failed completely.

Variants and Related Words

• Laurel and Hardy: The iconic comedy duo consisting of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy.
• Hardy: A common shorthand reference to Oliver Hardy when the context is clear, especially in discussions about the duo.
  • Laurel was the thin one, and Hardy was the heavy one.

Synonyms

• Comedian: A professional entertainer who amuses an audience.
• Film star: A famous actor in motion pictures.

Related Phrases

• "Another fine mess you've gotten me into!": The most famous catchphrase associated with Oliver Hardy's character, typically said to Stan Laurel's character after a plan goes disastrously wrong. It exemplifies his pompous, blame-shifting persona.

Noun

1. United States slapstick comedian who played the pompous and overbearing member of the Laurel and Hardy duo who made many films (1892-1957)