Clown Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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clown
[klaÊŠn ]
Definitions
entertainment
A clown is a performer who uses comedy, circus skills, and exaggerated behavior to entertain an audience. Clowns often wear colorful costumes, paint their faces with exaggerated features, and perform silly acts to make people laugh.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| clown |
Typically used to describe someone who entertains others with jokes and physical comedy, often in a circus setting. It can also be used informally to describe someone acting foolishly or trying to be funny.
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| comedian |
Used to describe a professional entertainer who makes people laugh through jokes, stand-up routines, or other humorous performances.
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| jester |
Refers to a historical figure, often in a royal court, whose job was to entertain the king and his guests with jokes, physical comedy, and sometimes satirical commentary. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who jokes around a lot.
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| buffoon |
A negative term used to describe someone who behaves in a silly or ridiculous manner, often without regard for how their actions affect others.
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Examples of usage
- The children at the birthday party were delighted by the clown's funny tricks.
- The circus clown made everyone in the audience laugh with his silly antics.
negative connotation
In some contexts, a clown can refer to a person who behaves foolishly, makes poor decisions, or acts in a ridiculous manner. It is often used as a derogatory term to criticize someone's behavior or appearance.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| clown |
Typically used to describe someone who is funny or acts humorously in a playful or exaggerated manner.
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| fool |
Used for someone who lacks good judgment or acts unwisely. This term is often negative.
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| idiot |
A very negative term used to describe someone as extremely stupid or lacking intelligence.
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| buffoon |
Refers to someone who is ridiculous and behaves in a silly way, often without realizing it. This term can have a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Don't be such a clown and take this seriously.
- He always acts like a clown, making a fool of himself in front of others.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'clown' comes from the Old Norse word 'klunni', which means 'clumsy person'.
- They have roots in ancient Roman theater, where comedic characters would entertain the audience with humor and physical comedy.
- In the 16th century, they became common in Italian commedia dell'arte, where actors wore specific costumes and comedic masks.
Pop Culture
- In modern entertainment, clowns often appear in circuses, bringing joy with their antics and balloon animals.
- Popular films like 'It' by Stephen King have given clowns a darker reputation in popular culture, showcasing the contrast between joy and fear.
- Clowns have also become a part of themed events like birthday parties, where they perform magic tricks and entertain children.
Psychology
- Some people experience 'coulrophobia', an irrational fear of clowns, often due to their exaggerated features.
- Clowns use humor to diffuse tense situations, tapping into the psychology of laughter as a coping mechanism.
- The duality of a clown's cheerful exterior and sometimes dark undertones can be a reflection of the complexity of human emotion.
Art and Literature
- Many artists have depicted clowns in paintings, symbolizing the idea of the 'tragic comedian' who hides pain behind laughter.
- In Shakespeare's plays, clowns were often used as fools who revealed truths through humor and wit.
- Contemporary literature often explores themes of identity and existentialism through the motif of the clown.
Cultural Significance
- Clowns can be found in many cultures around the world, adapting to local customs and humor.
- In some indigenous cultures, clowns serve a serious role by challenging norms and traditional beliefs through satire.
- During festivals like Mardi Gras, clowns and jesters are key figures, celebrating joy and comedic expression.
Origin of 'clown'
The word 'clown' has its origins in the late 16th century, derived from the Scandinavian word 'klunni' meaning 'clumsy person' or 'lout'. Over time, the term evolved to describe a performer who entertains through comedy and exaggerated behavior, often associated with circuses and comedic acts.