n.
Pronunciation: ' här-li-k(w) ə n
Function: noun
Etymology: ultimately from Italian arlecchino, from Middle French Helquin, a demon
Date: 1590
1 a capitalized : a character in comedy and pantomime with a shaved head, masked face, variegated tights, and wooden sword b : BUFFOON
2 a : a variegated pattern (as of a textile) b : a combination of patches on a solid ground of contrasting color (as in the coats of some dogs)
harlequin