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

The scenic design by Paul Tate dePOO III savors the show’s Grand Guignol flavors while leaving plenty of flexibility for antic comedy.

From Los Angeles Times

The film cast Crawford and her fellow diva Bette Davis as elderly sisters in a Grand Guignol horror hit.

From The Wall Street Journal

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

As mixed as I am on the film itself, I appreciate that the Academy is embracing not just a horror movie, but a gleeful Grand Guignol that defiles the Walk of Fame twice.

From Los Angeles Times

Genres are mashed together at will: western, action, romance, Grand Guignol.

From Los Angeles Times