Meaning & Definition of word "Clown"

Clown

/klaʊn/

noun:

  • 1. A comic performer, often in a circus, characterized by exaggerated gestures, silly costumes, and humorous behavior, whose purpose is to entertain an audience.
    • Example: The clown at the birthday party made the children laugh with his silly antics.
  • 2. A person who behaves in a silly or foolish way; someone who is not taken seriously.
    • Example: He always acts like a clown during meetings, making it hard to focus on the important topics.
  • 3. A person who is a professional performer of entertainment meant to provoke laughter.
    • Example: The circus clown juggled and performed tricks to keep the crowd engaged.

verb:

  • 1. To behave in a silly or foolish way to amuse others.
    • Example: He loves to clown around with his friends on weekends.
  • 2. To act in a light-hearted or playful manner.
    • Example: They clowned in the park, pretending to be superheroes.

Etymology

Middle English: from clowne, of uncertain origin; perhaps related to 'clown' in a sense of 'peasant'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

clown around:

To act silly or playfully; to joke or engage in fun.

clowning around:

Engaging in playful or silly behavior.

white-faced clown:

A clown with a white face and exaggerated features, typically seen in a circus.

Related Words

jester:

A historical entertainer known for jokes and clever remarks.

fool:

A person who lacks good sense or judgment.

harlequin:

A comic character with a mask and colorful costume, traditionally a servant in Italian commedia dell'arte.

Slang Meanings of clown

Meaning: Someone who is not taken seriously, a fool.

Example Sentence: He acts like such a clown, no one respects his opinions.

Meaning: A person who tries too hard to be funny but is not effective.

Example Sentence: You don't have to be a clown all the time to get attention.