Old Comedy

noun

1. Greek comedy of the 5th century b.c., which derived from fertility rites in honor of Dionysus and combined robust humor with biting personal and political satire.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Old Comedy¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Imagine my disappointment, then, when “After Midnight” proved to be not a talk show — and by “talk show” I mean anything from a show that’s all talk to one that’s closer to variety, with sketches and musical numbers and whatnot — but a revival of an old Comedy Central panel show, “@midnight.”

From Los Angeles Times

The primary assets here though are Aniston and Sandler, who are totally present in every scene, playing off each other like old comedy pros and coming up with little bits of improvisatory business that make Nick and Audrey feel like a real and loving married couple.

From Los Angeles Times

Depending on your age, the true highlight was probably when Kel Mitchell — of “Kenan & Kel” — showed up and ordered a Good Burger from his old comedy partner.

From Washington Post

“He wouldn’t miss any of those ‘Kung Fu’ episodes or old comedy shows.”

From Los Angeles Times

Embracing the spirit of Old Comedy, Matt Walker, who adapted and directed this madcap update set in Malibu, encourages his troupe to pull out all the vaudevillian stops.

From Los Angeles Times