Grand Guignol

American  

[grahn gee-nyawl] / grɑ̃ giˈnyɔl /

noun

1. a short drama stressing horror and sensationalism.

2. of, relating to, or resembling such a drama.

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Grand Guignol British  

/ ɡrɑ̃ ɡiɲɔl /

noun

1. 1. a brief sensational play intended to horrify

   2. (modifier) of, relating to, or like plays of this kind

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Etymology

Origin of Grand Guignol

First recorded in 1905–10; after Le Grand Guignol, small theater in Paris where such dramas were performed

Example Sentences

Nevertheless, it’s a Grand Guignol finish to what has previously been an effective, affecting and strictly naturalistic new interpretation of this canonical drama.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

Hers is a Grand Guignol sensibility that any “White Lotus” fan will get — and applaud.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 19, 2024

It’s a testament to how deeply successful Jessica Chastain is at making human someone most of us knew only in Grand Guignol caricature.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 30, 2021

The cast matches Saariaho’s score in its commitment and discipline, its refusal to fall into overplaying or Grand Guignol.

From New York Times • Jul. 7, 2021

Le Grand Guignol is the first theatre in Paris.

From Oscar Wilde, His Life and Confessions Volume 2 by Harris, Frank