kabuki

Definition

A form of Japanese theatre in which elaborately costumed male performers use stylized movements, dances, and songs in order to enact tragedies and comedies.

Etymology

Borrowed from Japanese 歌舞伎 (kabuki).

Example Sentences

• "Despite its self-consciously assumed irreverence toward traditional practices, “Hokaibo” incorporates all the essential elements of classic Kabuki: the all-male company of actors, exaggerated makeup, the stomping dances, the arresting, cross-eyed poses at moments of high drama that are recognized and applauded."
• "Ichikawa, whose real name is Takahiko Kinoshi, made his kabuki debut in 1980 and went on to become one of the country’s most renowned performers."
• "The whole "weapons of mass destruction" concern was phony from the start, and the drama about inspections was just kabuki: going through the motions."