Roman holiday

American  

noun

1. a public spectacle or controversy marked by barbarism, vindictiveness, or scandal.

2. pleasure or advantage gained from the discomfort or suffering of others.

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Roman holiday British  

noun

1. entertainment or pleasure that depends on the suffering of others

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Etymology

Origin of Roman holiday

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Cinematic nods throughout the series reference another Humphrey Bogart classic, the 1954 romance “Sabrina,” in which Audrey Hepburn has a glow up in the French capital amid a love triangle between two brothers, and 1953’s “Roman Holiday,” in which Hepburn lops her hair into a bob and rides a Vespa before finding love.

From Los Angeles Times

Influenced by Audrey Hepburn’s character in the 1953 film “Roman Holiday,” Green envisioned a world where “the princess lived her life in color rather than black-and-white.”

From Los Angeles Times

During her time in the capital she gained her first film and stage roles including her Broadway debut in Gigi and secured an Oscar for her portrayal of Princess Ann in Roman Holiday, while she also became known for her style and fashion influence.

From BBC

Seeing the 1953 film “Roman Holiday” made Callas determined to look like its diminutive star, Audrey Hepburn.

From Los Angeles Times

While stationed in Europe, he also helped gather footage for William Wyler, who would go on to direct films such as Ben Hur, Roman Holiday, and Wuthering Heights.

From BBC