noun
comedian who plays a lover's part; man who is both handsome and fun
A kabuki-derived term for a male performer or person who combines the handsome, romantic qualities of a 二枚目 (lover type) with the comedic, approachable traits of a 三枚目 (clown type). Used in entertainment contexts and occasionally for describing a man's personality.
彼は二枚目半の役がよく似合う俳優だ。
He is an actor who suits roles that are both handsome and comedic.
あの芸人は二枚目半で、女性ファンが多い。
That entertainer is a handsome funny guy and has many female fans.
Refers specifically to a handsome, romantic leading man (lover type) in kabuki and by extension a good-looking man. 二枚目半 adds a comedic, fun-loving side.
Refers to a comedic or clownish character in kabuki, or a funny, often not conventionally handsome man. 二枚目半 combines this humor with good looks.
From kabuki terminology: 二枚目 (the second panel, indicating the handsome lover role) + 半 (half), literally 'halfway between the second and third panels', i.e., between the lover and the clown.