Definition

Noun 1. A comic incident or series of incidents; buffoonery: The act of behaving in a silly, funny, or ridiculous way to amuse others. 2. Acting like a clown or buffoon: Engaging in foolish or playful behavior, often to provoke laughter or as a form of performance.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The children's constant clowning during class made it difficult for the teacher to maintain order.
  • His clowning at the party had everyone in stitches.
  • The meeting was interrupted by some unnecessary clowning from the junior staff.

Advanced Usage

• "to be no clowning matter": Used to emphasize that a situation is serious and should not be treated with frivolity or silly behavior.
  • Safety in the laboratory is no clowning matter; you must follow the protocols.

Variants and Related Words

• Clown (noun/verb): A performer who wears a funny costume and makeup to amuse people, especially in a circus; to act like a clown.
  • He decided to clown around instead of doing his homework.
• Clownish (adjective): Resembling or characteristic of a clown; silly, awkward.
  • His clownish behavior was endearing to some but annoying to others.

Synonyms

• Buffoonery: Silly or ridiculous behavior.
• Horseplay: Rough, boisterous play.
• Tomfoolery: Foolish or silly behavior.
• Antics: Funny, silly, or playful acts.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Clown around": To behave in a silly or playful way, often when you should be serious.
  • Stop clowning around and focus on your work.

Noun

1. a comic incident or series of incidents
2. acting like a clown or buffoon