In 8 colombine. [a. F. Colombine or It. Colombina, fem. proper name, f. colombino dove-like.] A character in Italian Comedy, the mistress of Harlequin, transferred to our Pantomime or Harlequinade.
1727. ‘D’Urfey,’ Eng. Stage Italianised (Pantomime) Dram. Personæ, Colombine, a coquet, in love with every body.
1744. Fielding, Tumble-Down Dick (Pantomime), Harlequin re-enters, considering how to regain Colombine.
1749. W. R. Chetwood, Hist. Stage, 130. An agreeable Actress when the part suited her voice, a tolerable dancer and a pleasing Colombine.
1812. H. & J. Smith, Rej. Addr. (1855), 74. O could I as Harlequin frisk, And thou be my Columbine fair.
1862. All Y. Round, 13 Sept., 12. Joey and I both fell in love with the columbine. She was a pretty girl and clever, and as good as she was both.
