Definitions
from the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English.
- noun acting like a clown or buffoon.
- noun a comic incident or series of incidents.
from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.
- verb Present participle of
clown .
from WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
- noun acting like a clown or buffoon
- noun a comic incident or series of incidents
Etymologies
from The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 4th Edition
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Examples
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Bangkok - Spaniard Alvaro Neil is giving new meaning to the phrase clowning around the world.
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She wearied of Rose's talkativeness, regarded the child's brightness as a kind of clowning, and in the way of a kind, unlettered, self-possessed mother, forgave her daughter for being intelligent.
Beard 2010
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She is putting on a show and 'clowning' for her audience.
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They used "clowning" as a way to bring a lighter side to the protests and publish a local newsletter called the Cambrian Snooze.
REPORT ON SPEAKING TOUR TO ENGLAND, WALES, AND SCOTLAND 2007
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According to a federal criminal complaint, Amon Paul Carlock took the illicit photos during a "clowning" trip to the House of Joy orphanage earlier this year.
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According to a federal criminal complaint, Amon Paul Carlock took the illicit photos during a "clowning" trip to the House of Joy orphanage earlier this year.
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The lipstick could have signified anything -- maybe some kind of clowning around by the drunk before he fell asleep.
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The lipstick could have signified anything -- maybe some kind of clowning around by the drunk before he fell asleep.
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Our music-hall performers have invented a kind of clowning peculiar to this country, in which kicking and leaping are also a part of the business.
Plays, Acting and Music A Book Of Theory Arthur Symons 1905
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Drawing from various theatrical traditions, such as clowning, pantomime, charades, acrobatics and vaudeville, "Godspell" is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love.
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