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Prank Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prank

[præŋk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

funny

A playful or mischievous act intended to cause amusement or confusion.

Synonyms

hoax, joke, trick.

Examples of usage

  • He pulled a prank on his friend by hiding his keys.
  • The prank involved putting a fake spider in her desk drawer.
Context #2 | Verb

joke

To play a trick or practical joke on someone.

Synonyms

dupe, hoax, trick.

Examples of usage

  • He loves to prank his coworkers by switching their computer screens.
  • She pranked her brother by pretending to be a ghost in the dark.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'prank' comes from the old English word 'prank,' meaning to ornament or dress up, suggesting playful behavior.
  • In the 16th century, 'prank' referred to a trick or a joke, often involving a humorous deception.

Pop Culture

  • Pranking shows like 'Punk'd' popularized hidden camera antics, featuring celebrities as unwitting targets.
  • The annual 'April Fools' Day' is a day dedicated entirely to playing pranks, with origins tracing back to the 16th century in Europe.

Psychology

  • Light-hearted pranking can strengthen social bonds, as laughter fosters a sense of camaraderie among friends.
  • Studies suggest that humor, including pranks, can reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness.

Education

  • Teachers sometimes use harmless pranks to make learning fun and engaging, breaking the ice in the classroom.
  • Pranks can also be used as a tool for creativity, encouraging students to think outside the box and devise clever ideas.

Technology

  • With the rise of social media, pranks have taken on new forms, like viral challenges that encourage users to pull harmless tricks on friends.
  • Apps and websites dedicated to prank calls and jokes have emerged, making it easier for anyone to join in the fun.

Origin of 'prank'

The word 'prank' is believed to have originated around the 16th century, possibly derived from the Middle Dutch word 'prancke' which means 'a trick'. Pranks have been a part of human culture for centuries, often used for entertainment or to playfully deceive others. Over time, pranks have evolved with the changing social dynamics and technology, becoming a popular form of amusement and social interaction.

See also: prankish, prankishness, pranks, prankster.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,354, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.