raree show

[ rair-ee ]

noun

1. peep show.
2. a carnival or street show; spectacle.

raree show

/ ˈrɛəriː /

noun

1. a street show or carnival
2. another name for peepshow

Word History and Origins

Origin of raree show¹

First recorded in 1695–1705; allegedly imitative of a foreign pronunciation of rare show

Word History and Origins

Origin of raree show¹

C17: raree from rare ¹

Example Sentences

They sell the memories of their famous heroes, of their philosophers and poets, by making a raree-show of their tombs.

From Project Gutenberg

I stand, as it were, before the raree-show: I see the little puppets move, and I ask whether it is not an optical illusion.

From Project Gutenberg

Well-dressed ladies walked about great part of the night staring as at a raree show.

From Project Gutenberg

“Nay, but my garb scarce befits the raree show,” said Ridley, looking at his russet gown.

From Project Gutenberg

Is it worse to sleep away our lives here than to be taken into England as a raree show for men to laugh at and women to pity?

From Project Gutenberg