Com"e*dy (?), n.; pl. Comedies (#). [F. com'edie, L. comoedia, fr. Gr. ; a jovial festivity with music and dancing, a festal procession an ode sung at this procession (perh. akin to village, E. home) + to sing; for comedy was originally of a lyric character. See Home, and Ode.]
A dramatic composition, or representation of a bright and amusing character, based upon the foibles of individuals, the manners of society, or the ludicrous events or accidents of life; a play in which mirth predominates and the termination of the plot is happy; -- opposed to tragedy.
With all the vivacity if comedy.
Macaulay.
Are come to play a pleasant comedy.
Shak.
© Webster 1913.