Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Buffoonery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿคก
Add to dictionary

buffoonery

[bษ™หˆfuหnษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

foolish behavior

Buffoonery refers to silly or absurd behavior that is meant to amuse others. It often involves clownish antics or mockery that may be humorous but can also seem foolish. The term can be used to describe acts that deliberately aim to provoke laughter, whether on stage or in everyday life. Buffoonery may also imply a lack of seriousness or maturity in specific situations.

Synonyms

antics, clowning, foolery, jesting, mockery.

Examples of usage

  • His buffoonery at the party entertained everyone.
  • The play was full of buffoonery that made the audience laugh.
  • Despite his buffoonery, he was quite serious about his work.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Theatre and Performance

  • Buffoonery is often associated with Commedia dell'arte, an improvisational form of theatre that featured stock characters and exaggerated actions.
  • In modern theatre, buffoonery can add humor and lighten serious themes, making performances more engaging.
  • Famous comedians, like Charlie Chaplin, used elements of buffoonery to create memorable and comedic characters.

Psychology

  • People often engage in buffoonery as a form of social bonding, using humor to connect with others.
  • Psychologists believe that laughter can reduce stress and improve mood, making buffoonery a valuable part of social interactions.
  • Studies show that engaging in playful behavior, such as buffoonery, can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Dumb and Dumber' feature buffoonery heavily, relying on silly antics to deliver comedy.
  • In video games, characters displaying buffoonery provide comic relief amid intense action, such as in 'Borderlands'.
  • Television shows like 'The Office' often use buffoonery through characters who behave outlandishly to elicit laughs from the audience.

Origin of 'buffoonery'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Italian 'buffone', meaning 'jester' or 'clown'.
  • It entered the English language in the 17th century, reflecting the culture of entertainment at that time.
  • Originally, it referred to theatrical performers who played ridiculous roles to amuse the audience.

The word 'buffoonery' originates from the French word 'buffon', which means 'clown' or 'jester'. This word can be traced back to the Italian 'buffone', which denotes a jester or fool. The usage of 'buffoon' in English began in the 16th century, indicating a comic performer or one who behaves in a ridiculous or foolish manner. The '-ery' suffix signifies a state or condition, which in this case refers to the performance or behavior typical of a buffoon. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various forms of nonsensical or outrageous conduct, especially in the context of entertainment or theatrical performance. Buffoonery is commonly associated with slapstick comedy and lighthearted antics, bridging its historical roots to contemporary uses in different forms of media.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,358 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.