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Gilbertian

American  
[gil-bur-tee-uhn] / gɪlˈbɜr ti ən /

adjective

  1. of, relating to, or characteristic of the style or humor of Sir William S. Gilbert.


Gilbertian British  
/ ɡɪlˈbɜːtɪən /

adjective

  1. characteristic of or resembling the style or whimsical humour of W. S. Gilbert

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of Gilbertian

First recorded in 1875–80; Gilbert + -ian

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.

See Examples For:

Evelyn Sharp’s libretto crackles with snappy wordplay, Gilbertian patter and Broadway-worthy couplets.

From New York Times ● Jan. 15, 2012

Possibly nothing is more Gilbertian than the absurd quarrels among the Russian emigres over the succession to the non-existent Romanov throne.

From Time Magazine Archive

The Lief lyrics, though not Gilbertian, were cheerful; the music of Maurice Yvain was pleasantly plentiful.

From Time Magazine Archive

Aided bv Gilbertian satire, Broadway slapstick, attractive dancers, the pepper of quick wisecracks, the charm of music, Peggy-Ann skipped right up to the head of the class in current musical diversions.

From Time Magazine Archive

When Jean Louise felt apprehensive, expectant, or on edge, especially when confronting her aunt, her brain clicked to the meter of Gilbertian tomfoolery.

From "Go Set a Watchman: A Novel" by Harper Lee

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