Joker: meaning, definitions and examples
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joker
[ ˈdʒoʊ.kər ]
fictional character
A joker is a person who is fond of joking or jesting; a wit or wag. They are known for their sense of humor and ability to make others laugh.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| joker |
Refers to someone who makes jokes, but can sometimes imply that the person is not being serious at a time when seriousness is needed.
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| wit |
Describes someone who is exceptionally smart and quick with clever, humorous remarks. Generally used in a positive, admiring sense.
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| wag |
Common in British English, a wag is a witty person who makes clever remarks and jokes. Often used in a light-hearted, affectionate context.
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| prankster |
Specifically refers to someone who loves to play tricks or pranks on others. Can carry a negative connotation if the pranks are mean-spirited.
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| jester |
Historically, a jester was a professional clown in medieval times who entertained nobles. Can be used more broadly today to describe someone who is comedic in a quirky or flamboyant way.
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Examples of usage
- He is always the joker in the group, constantly cracking jokes and making everyone laugh.
- Don't take him seriously, he's just a joker trying to lighten the mood.
playing card
In a deck of cards, the joker is a card added to the pack as a wild card, with no fixed rank or suit. It is often used in various card games as a special card with unique abilities.
Synonyms
extra card, trump card, wild card.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| joker |
Use this word when referring to a person who makes jokes or in card games to describe a card that can represent any other card.
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| wild card |
In card games, use this term for a card that can substitute any other card. Metaphorically, it describes an unpredictable element.
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| trump card |
Use this term in card games to refer to a card that has higher value than others or metaphorically to describe a decisive advantage.
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| extra card |
This term is best used when referring to an additional card that is added to a set, not specific to any game rules.
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Examples of usage
- The joker can be used as any card you want in this game.
- If you draw the joker, you get a special bonus in this round.
Translations
Translations of the word "joker" in other languages:
🇵🇹 piadista
🇮🇳 मज़ाकिया (mazakiya)
🇩🇪 Witzbold
🇮🇩 pelawak
🇺🇦 жартівник
🇵🇱 żartowniś
🇯🇵 ジョーカー (jokā)
🇫🇷 farceur
🇪🇸 bromista
🇹🇷 şakacı
🇰🇷 농담꾼 (nongdamkkun)
🇸🇦 مهرج (muharij)
🇨🇿 šprýmař
🇸🇰 vtipkár
🇨🇳 小丑 (xiǎochǒu)
🇸🇮 šaljivec
🇮🇸 brandarakarl
🇰🇿 әзілқой (äzilqoy)
🇬🇪 ჯამბაზი (jambazi)
🇦🇿 zarafatçı
🇲🇽 bromista
Etymology
The term 'joker' originated in the 17th century, derived from the Middle English word 'jogelour' meaning 'jester'. It was used to describe a person who entertained others with jokes, tricks, and jests. Over time, the term evolved to also refer to the special playing card in a deck. The concept of the joker as a character in fiction, particularly in comic books and movies, became popular in the 20th century.