mime
UK: maɪm | US: maɪm
n. 1. A performer who uses gestures and body movements without speech to convey a story or emotion.
n. 2. The art or technique of performing in this style.
vt. To imitate or mimic silently through gestures and movements.
mime = mim<imitate> + e (silent suffix)
- mim<imitate>: From Greek mimos (imitator, actor), referring to theatrical imitation.
- e: A silent letter in English, often retained from Latin or Greek spellings.
Etymology Origin:
The word mime traces back to Greek mimos, meaning "imitator" or "actor," reflecting its theatrical roots. It entered English via Latin mimus and Old French mime, retaining its core meaning of silent imitation. The art form evolved in ancient Greece and Rome, where performers used exaggerated gestures to tell stories without speech, a tradition preserved in modern mime.
The street performer captivated the crowd with his skillful mime.
She studied mime at a renowned theater school in Paris.
Children often mime their favorite cartoon characters.
His mime of a trapped box was both humorous and poignant.
The play included a silent mime sequence to convey the protagonist's isolation.