buffi
Definition
Noun:
- Comic actor (plural: buffi): "buffi" is the plural form of "buffo," which refers to a comic actor, especially in Italian opera or comedic theatre. It denotes performers who specialize in humorous roles.
Adjective:
- Comical or farcical: "buffi" (used attributively) describes something that is humorous, absurd, or in the style of comic opera.
Usage Examples
Noun:
- The opera featured two buffi who kept the audience laughing throughout the performance. (Comic actors performing humorous roles.)
- In traditional commedia dell'arte, the buffi often played exaggerated characters like Pantalone. (The plural form referring to multiple comic performers.)
Adjective:
- The play had a buffi tone, with slapstick comedy and ridiculous situations. (Having a comical, farcical quality.)
Advanced Usage
"buffo" (singular): The base form, used for a single comic actor.
- He was a brilliant buffo, known for his timing and physical comedy. (A singular comic performer.)
"buffi buffi": In rare contexts, a reduplicated form emphasizing extreme comedy.
- The scene was pure buffi buffi, with actors tumbling over each other. (Intensely comedic and chaotic.)
Variants and Related Words
Buffo (n, singular): a comic actor, especially in opera.
- The buffo sang a hilarious aria about his misfortunes. (The comic performer delivered a funny song.)
Buffonesque (adj): resembling or characteristic of a buffoon or comic actor.
- His buffonesque antics annoyed the serious audience. (His clownish behavior.)
Synonyms
- Clown: a comic performer who uses physical comedy.
- Jester: a historical entertainer who tells jokes and performs tricks.
Related Idioms
To play the buffo: to act in a comically exaggerated manner.
- He loves to play the buffo at parties, making everyone laugh. (To behave like a clown.)
Buffi of the stage: a term for a group of comic actors.
- The buffi of the stage were the heart of the comedy troupe. (The comic performers.)