Definition

1. Noun:
   • A performer in a traditional folk play, especially a pantomime actor: A "mummer" is an actor who performs in a type of folk play, often during festivals like Christmas, where dialogue may be minimal or absent, and communication relies heavily on gesture, mime, and facial expression.
   • A masked or disguised merrymaker: Historically, a "mummer" could refer to a participant in a festive procession or revelry who wears a mask or costume.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The village mummer performed a silent, expressive pantomime about the changing seasons.
  • In the old tradition, a mummer would wear a colorful costume and mask to entertain the crowd.

Advanced Usage

• "Mummers' play": Refers specifically to the traditional folk play performed by mummers, often involving stock characters, combat, and resurrection themes.
  • The annual festival featured a classic mummers' play performed in the town square.

Variants and Related Words

• Mummery (n): The performance or practice of mummers; can also mean a ridiculous or hypocritical ceremony.
  • The old mummery has been a part of our holiday tradition for centuries.

Synonyms

• Pantomimist: An actor who performs without words, using only gestures and expressions.
• Mime: A performer who uses silent bodily movement and expression.

Related Phrases

• To go mumming: To participate as a mummer in a folk play or festive procession.
  • In some regions, people still go mumming during the winter holidays.

Noun

1. an actor who communicates entirely by gesture and facial expression