1.
clown; jester; buffoon
A performer who entertains through comedy, often in a circus or theatrical setting. Also used figuratively for someone who acts the fool to amuse others or to describe someone being made a fool of.
道化師が子どもたちを笑わせた。
The clown made the children laugh.
彼はいつもクラスの道化師役だった。
He was always the class clown.
道化師の笑顔の裏には深い悲しみが隠されていた。
Behind the clown's smile, a deep sadness was hidden.
USAGE: 道化師 can refer to a literal circus clown or theatrical jester, or be used figuratively for someone who plays the fool. The figurative use sometimes carries a poignant nuance — someone who hides their true feelings behind humor.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 道化師役: the role of clown/jester
- 道化師を演じる: to play the fool
- 道化師のように振る舞う: to act like a clown
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 道化師: clown, jester (formal/literary)
- ピエロ: clown, pierrot (loanword, also used figuratively for someone made a fool of)
- 道化: clowning, buffoonery (the act itself)