Pageant
/ˈpædʒ.ənt/noun
A public show or spectacular display, often elaborate and ceremonial.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Latin *pagina*, meaning a “page” or “written sheet,” because medieval pageants were first associated with the written scripts and staged scenes of mystery plays.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
pagina
“A page, sheet, or written surface.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
pagina
“A written page or script used in texts and plays.”
Old French
Old French
pageant
“A stage, platform, or dramatic scene in a mystery play.”
Middle English
English
pageaunt
“A theatrical scene or pageant wagon in a religious procession.”
Modern English
English
pageant
“A splendid public spectacle or contest, especially a ceremonial procession or beauty competition.”