Oliver Hardy

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An American slapstick comedian who performed with Stan Laurel

proper noun
/ˈɑːlɪvər ˈhɑːrdi/

: Oliver Hardy

Classic films starring Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurel continue to delight audiences around the world.

Examples

Oliver Hardy's comedic timing and expressive face made him a legend of early cinema.
Few comedic duos are as iconic as Laurel and Oliver Hardy.
The legendary comedian Oliver Hardy made millions laugh.
Did you know Oliver Hardy was part of a famous duo?
Oliver Hardy was known for his unforgettable performances alongside Stan Laurel in silent films.
Many classic comedies featuring Oliver Hardy showcase his unique sense of humor and physical comedy.
In the history of film, Oliver Hardy stands out as one half of one of the most beloved comedy duos.

Surface Forms

Oliver Hardy main

Morphology

Oliver + Hardy

This is a proper name referring to a specific historical person; knowing the constituent items 'Oliver' and 'Hardy' (which here have no lexical definitions) does not allow a learner to infer the referent or his profession. The meaning is referential and requires cultural/world knowledge or prior exposure, so it is not compositionally derivable from the parts.

Etymology

Oliver Hardy was a real American comic actor who was one half of the famous duo Laurel and Hardy. He often played a serious, bossy man with a round face, a bowler hat and a small moustache next to his thin, silly partner, so his name now brings to mind that old 'slapstick' comic style.