mime

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun an actor who communicates entirely by gesture and facial expression
  2. noun a performance using gestures and body movements without words
  3. verb imitate (a person or manner), especially for satirical effect

Etymology

Possibly from Middle English *mime, from Old English mīma (“a buffoon, jester, mime”), from Latin mimus, from Ancient Greek μῖμος (mîmos, “imitator, actor”), but more likely re-borrowed in modern times from French mime (“mimic actor”), from the same source.

In classic literature

Synonyms

mimer, mummer, pantomimer, pantomimist

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