Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of trousers worn in former times: "Pantaloon" refers to a specific style of close-fitting trousers, typically ending below the knee, that were fashionable in earlier centuries.
   • A stock character in the commedia dell'arte: In this traditional Italian theatre form, "Pantaloon" (or Pantalone) is a foolish, greedy, and often amorous old man, recognizable by his tight trousers and red vest.
   • A buffoon or foolish character in modern pantomime: In contemporary British pantomime, "Pantaloon" is a comic character who is often the butt of jokes.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Historical Clothing):

  • The gentleman from the 17th century wore a pair of pantaloons.
  • The painting depicted a nobleman in a jacket and pantaloons.

• Noun (Theatrical Character):

  • In the play, the actor brilliantly portrayed Pantaloon as a miserly old man.
  • The classic commedia dell'arte troupe always includes a Pantaloon.

Advanced Usage

• "play the pantaloon": to act the part of a foolish old man.
  • In the farce, he was forced to play the pantaloon for laughs.

Variants and Related Words

• Pantalooned (adj): Dressed in pantaloons.
  • The pantalooned soldiers marched in formation.
• Pantalettes (n): A related term for long underpants worn by women and children in the 19th century.

Synonyms

• Breeches: Another term for knee-length trousers from a historical period.
• Buffoon: A ridiculous but amusing person; a clown.
• Dotard: An old person, especially one who is weak or senile (similar to the character's traits).

Related Phrases

• Punch and Judy: A traditional puppet show often featuring stock characters similar to those in commedia dell'arte, where a foolish authority figure might be reminiscent of Pantaloon.

Related Idioms

• To be someone's pantaloon: To be made a fool of; to be the butt of someone's jokes (derived from the character's role).
  • In the office politics, he often found himself being the manager's pantaloon.

Noun

1. trousers worn in former times
2. a character in the commedia dell'arte; portrayed as a foolish old man
3. a buffoon in modern pantomimes; the butt of jokes