Pageant

(pāj'ant, or pā'jant) (Synop., § 130), n. [Probably fr. A-S. pæceand, p. pr. of pæcean, pæcen, to deceive, as by false appearances, imitation, or representation.]

1Sense 1. Something showy, without stability or duration; a fleeting show.

Thus unlamented pass the proud away. The gaze of fools, and pageant of a day. Pope.

2Sense 2. A spectacle or exhibition for the entertainment of a distinguished personage, or of the public; a show; a display.

The poets contrived the following pageant for the pope’s entertainment: a floating mountain, split at the top, in imitation of Parnassus. Addison.

3Sense 3. Hence, in general, an exhibition; a spectacle.

“To see sad pageants of men’s miseries.” Spenser.

(pāj'ant, or pā'jant), v. t. To exhibit in show; to represent. [Rare.] “He pageants us.” Shak.