Definition

Proper noun: * Gracie Allen: A stage name referring to a specific American comedienne, known for her comedic partnership with her husband, George Burns. Her persona was characterized as being pleasantly confused or illogical, yet consistently unflappable.

Usage

• This term is used exclusively as a proper noun to refer to the historical entertainer Grace "Gracie" Allen.
• It is used in contexts discussing the history of comedy, vaudeville, radio, television, or classic American entertainment.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Gracie Allen was a pioneer for women in comedy.
  • The Burns and Allen show starred George Burns and Gracie Allen.
  • Scholars study the comedic timing of Gracie Allen.

Advanced Usage

• The name "Gracie Allen" is often cited as an archetype of the "dumb blonde" or "feigned ignorance" comedic character, though her performance was noted for its intelligence and charm.
• Her comedic style is sometimes described as "illogical logic" or "perfectly reasonable nonsense."

Variants and Related Words

• Grace Allen: Her birth name.
• Burns and Allen: The iconic comedy duo consisting of George Burns and Gracie Allen.
• Comedienne: A female comedian (a term more common in her era).

Synonyms

• Entertainer: A performer who amuses an audience.
• Comedian/Comedienne: A professional comic performer.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• "Say goodnight, Gracie.": This was George Burns's famous straight-line cue to end their routine. The phrase entered popular culture as a way to signal an exit or conclusion.
  • After finishing the presentation, he smiled and said, "Well, say goodnight, Gracie."

Noun

1. United States comedienne remembered as the confused but imperturbable partner of her husband, George Burns (1906-1964)