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    Bouffon (en. Jester)

    /buf.fɔ̃/

    Meaning & Definition

    EnglishFrench
    noun
    A theatrical character whose role is to entertain through jokes and antics.
    The jester played an essential role in the comedic play.
    Le bouffon jouait un rôle essentiel dans la pièce comique.
    A person who behaves in a ridiculous manner to make others laugh.
    He acts like a fool to attract attention.
    Il agit comme un bouffon pour attirer l'attention.
    Figuratively, a person often perceived as stupid or worthless.
    Don't take him seriously, he's just a buffoon.
    Ne le prends pas au sérieux, c'est juste un bouffon.

    Etymology

    Comes from Old French 'bufon', derived from Latin 'buffo' meaning 'to make laugh'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    to act the fool
    to act in a ridiculous manner to amuse others.
    faire le bouffon
    court jester
    a person tasked with making others laugh at court.
    bouffon de cour
    to think of oneself as a fool
    to behave in an absurd or nonsensical way.
    se prendre pour un bouffon

    Related Words

    humorist
    A person who specializes in the art of making people laugh.
    humoriste
    farce
    Light comedy, often burlesque.
    farce
    mime
    An artist who uses body language to entertain without words.
    mime
    clown
    A comic artist, often with a costume and makeup.
    clown

    Slang Meanings

    A person who collects mistakes or makes a fool of themselves.
    Look at him, he's really a fool tonight.
    Regarde-le, il est vraiment bouffon ce soir.
    Someone who makes tasteless jokes.
    Stop acting like a buffoon, this is serious here.
    Arrête de jouer les bouffons, c'est sérieux ici.