Meaning & Definition of word "Joker"

Joker

/ˈjoʊ.kɚ/

noun:

  • 1. A person who jokes or jests; a person who is amusing or entertaining.
    • Example: He's always the joker in the group, making everyone laugh with his silly antics.
  • 2. A playing card that can be used as a wild card or to represent other cards.
    • Example: In our game, the joker can be used to substitute for any other card.
  • 3. A person who behaves in a foolish or mischievous manner.
    • Example: Stop acting like a joker and take this seriously.
  • 4. A character in literature or performance who is a fool or a jester.
    • Example: The joker in the play provided comic relief amid the serious drama.

Etymology

Early 17th century: from joker (noun), influenced by jester and jocular.

Common Phrases and Expressions

joker in the pack:

A person or thing that is unexpected or unknown.

play the joker:

To act in a silly or impractical way.

wild card joker:

A person or thing whose attributes are unpredictable.

Related Words

joking:

The act of making jokes.

jest:

A thing said or done for amusement; a joke.

comic:

A person whose profession is to entertain others by making them laugh.

Slang Meanings of joker

Meaning: Someone who acts foolishly or in a silly manner.

Example Sentence: Stop acting like a joker and help me with this.

Meaning: A person who plays practical jokes.

Example Sentence: He's such a joker; he loves to pull pranks on his friends.