banquo
|ban-quo|
🇺🇸
/ˈbæŋkwoʊ/
🇬🇧
/ˈbæŋkwəʊ/
Shakespearean character
Etymology
'Banquo' originates from Early Modern English usage in printed chronicles and drama, specifically appearing in Raphael Holinshed's Chronicles and popularized by William Shakespeare; its precise linguistic origin is uncertain and may be an invention or adaptation by Holinshed or Shakespeare.
'Banquo' was recorded in Holinshed's Chronicles (late 16th century) and then adopted by Shakespeare in his play Macbeth (c.1606), after which the name became the canonical form in English literature.
Initially it referred to a (possibly legendary or chronicled) figure in historical sources; over time the name became chiefly associated with Shakespeare's dramatic character and literary references.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a fictional character in William Shakespeare's play Macbeth: a Scottish nobleman (thane), friend of Macbeth, father of Fleance, whose murder and ghost play key roles in the drama.
Banquo is depicted as a noble and honorable thane whose murder haunts Macbeth.
Last updated: 2026/01/12 20:06