revue
Americannoun
-
a form of theatrical entertainment in which recent events, popular fads, etc., are parodied.
-
any entertainment featuring skits, dances, and songs.
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of revue
First recorded in 1870–75; from French: literally, “seen again”; see origin at review
Explanation
If you like singing and dancing, you might enjoy seeing a revue, or a theatrical show featuring a lot of performers with a variety of talents. The noun revue is somewhat old-fashioned, and this type of entertainment is more likely today to be called a "variety show." Revues were particularly popular in the early part of the 20th century, until the mid-1930s, and audiences attended them both for the funny, topical sketches as well as to see women dancing in scanty clothes. The earliest meaning of revue was "show presenting a review of current events."
Vocabulary lists containing revue
Out of the Dust
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
"The Pedestrian" by Ray Bradbury
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Internment
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Yip Harburg and Jay Gorney conceived “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” for the breadline scene in the 1932 revue “Americana,” where it was sung by Rex Weber.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 25, 2026
Unlike a bachelorette party or the typical male revue, there was no giggling in the room, and no wink of camp from the performers.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 2, 2026
It’s a wise choice: The venue gives the show the intimate feeling of a nightclub act, and it’s far better suited to a revue of Bacharach’s music than a larger space.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 5, 2026
At 21, she starred in Sillman’s musical comedy revue “New Faces of 1956” on Broadway and soon was a rising star.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 27, 2024
Owing to lack of time, Laurie’s revue would begin at eight o’clock, and last an hour.
From Marjorie Dean High School Senior by Chase, Josephine
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
