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Definition of serio
serio
/ˈsɛr.i.oʊ/
se · ri · o
Plural:serios
•Adjective:seriocomic
serio Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
12
Tier
3
Usage
Archaic
• noun
1
A theatrical performer who blends serious dramatic elements with comedy, particularly in the historical context of music halls or vaudeville.
Example
"The theater bill proudly announced the arrival of a celebrated serio whose emotional songs always drew tears before the comedic finale."
2
A performance, song, or theatrical act that is seriocomic in nature.
Example
"Her routine was a classic serio, beginning with a somber, reflective monologue and abruptly shifting into an upbeat, farcical dance."
• Rhymes for serio
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Clipped from 'serio-comic', originating in the late 19th-century British music hall and American vaudeville circuits to describe performers or acts that blended drama and comedy.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Serio. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/serio