Definition of the word comic

The word "comic" has its roots in ancient Greece. The term "kōmikos" (κωμικός) referred to a type of actor who played the role of the " koupários", a servant or clown in Greek comedy. These actors wore masks and used satire and ridicule to comment on contemporary issues. The Kōmikos was considered a low-brow form of entertainment, but it remained popular throughout the Roman Empire. The term "comic" was later introduced to Europe during the Middle Ages, where it referred to a type of jestering or juggling. In the 16th century, the word began to be used to describe a type of humor that was lighthearted and humorous, rather than satirical or critical. This sense of the word is still used today to describe something that is laughable or playful.