Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun, plural cha·ri·va·ris, verb (used with object), cha·ri·va·ried, cha·ri·va·ri·ing.
noun
- a discordant mock serenade to newlyweds, made with pans, kettles, etc
- a confused noise; din
“rough music,” especially as a community way of expressing disapproval of a marriage match, 1735, from French charivari, from Old French chalivali “discordant noise made by pots and pans” (14c.), from Late Latin caribaria “a severe headache,” from Greek karebaria “headache,” from kare “head” + barys “heavy” (see grave (adj.)).