carnivalesque

adjective

car·​ni·​val·​esque ˌkär-nə-və-ˈlesk How to pronounce carnivalesque (audio)
1
: suggestive of a carnival
a carnivalesque celebration
2
: marked by an often mocking or satirical challenge to authority and the traditional social hierarchy
a carnivalesque protest

Examples of carnivalesque in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Before last year’s trial, the blocks surrounding the Superior Court in Dedham developed a carnivalesque atmosphere. Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 12 Apr. 2025 With multiple hues split by seams that encircle their throats and bellies, the vases have a sweet, carnivalesque elegance. Julie Lasky, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2025 Well before last year’s trial, the blocks surrounding the Superior Court in Dedham developed a carnivalesque atmosphere. Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 2 Apr. 2025 As usual for Bong, unexpected music choices liven things up, from quirky waltzes to carnivalesque riffs in a Danny Elfman mode. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for carnivalesque

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of carnivalesque was in 1791

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Cite this Entry

“Carnivalesque.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carnivalesque. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

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