pantomime
UK: ˈpæntəmaɪm | US: ˈpæntəmaɪm
n. a theatrical performance using gestures and movements without words
n. (British) a traditional Christmas theatrical entertainment for children
vt./vi. to express or act out something through exaggerated gestures
The word pantomime originates from Greek pantomimos, combining pantos ("all") and mimos ("imitator"). It originally referred to a solo performer who acted out entire stories through gestures alone, embodying "all roles" silently. The term evolved in Latin (pantomimus) and entered English in the 17th century, later specializing in British theatrical traditions, especially Christmas plays blending comedy, music, and exaggerated physicality.
The actor’s pantomime of a trapped bird was hilariously accurate.
We took the children to see a pantomime of Cinderella during the holidays.
She pantomimed locking her lips and throwing away the key to signal secrecy.
Ancient Roman pantomimes often depicted mythological tales.
His pantomime of a chef cooking won the silent comedy contest.