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 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

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

From Seattle Times