1. a short play or entertainment performed after the main theatrical performance
Usage: theatrical; historical

Examples

• The comedy afterpiece provided light entertainment following the serious drama.
• In the 18th century, theaters commonly presented an afterpiece to complete the evening’s program.
• The brief afterpiece featured singing and dancing to send audiences home in good spirits.
• After the tragedy ended, the actors returned for a cheerful afterpiece.
• The theater manager scheduled a popular afterpiece to ensure patrons stayed until the end.
• Many afterpieces were farces designed to contrast with the main play’s tone.