Kyōgen
/ˈkjoʊɡən/noun
A traditional Japanese form of comic theater, often performed between serious Noh plays.
Did you know?Kyōgen developed alongside Noh and often used humor to expose human folly, including the supposed wisdom of priests, nobles, and spirits.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Chinese
Chinese
狂言 (kuángyán)
““Wild” or unconventional speech; a term for extravagant or nonsensical talk.”
Heian Period
Japanese
狂言 (kyōgen)
“Comic or satirical performance, including humorous interludes and popular entertainment.”
14th–15th Century
Japanese
Kyōgen
“A distinct comic stage tradition developing alongside Noh theater.”
Muromachi Period
Japanese
狂言
“Short comedic plays performed between Noh dramas, using lively dialogue, caricature, and social satire.”
19th–20th Century
English
kyōgen
“A Japanese theatrical genre adopted as an English loanword.”
Modern English
English
Kyōgen
“Traditional Japanese comic theater, especially the humorous plays associated with Noh.”