Pranks Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คฃ
pranks
[prรฆลks ]
Definitions
funny
A playful or mischievous act intended to cause amusement or confusion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pranks |
Pranks are playful actions or practical jokes typically meant to amuse or surprise someone without causing harm.
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| joke |
A joke is a light-hearted remark or story meant to cause laughter. It is usually harmless and intended to entertain.
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| trick |
A trick can be a playful or clever act meant to deceive someone, often temporarily. It can range from simple magic tricks to more elaborate schemes.
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| hoax |
A hoax is a deliberate attempt to deceive or trick someone, often on a larger scale and sometimes with harmful consequences. It usually involves presenting false information as true.
|
Examples of usage
- He was always up to mischief and playing pranks.
- The group of friends enjoyed pulling pranks on each other.
- She decided to play a harmless prank on her coworker.
jokingly
To play a trick or joke on someone in a playful way.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| joke |
A statement, story, or action intended to make people laugh. Typically harmless and meant to entertain.
|
| trick |
An action intended to deceive or surprise someone. Can be harmless like a magic trick or more malicious if intended to fool someone.
|
| hoax |
A false statement or trick, often created to mislead people. Usually more serious and can have negative consequences.
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Examples of usage
- They pranked their friend by pretending to be someone else on the phone.
- He pranks his siblings all the time with his witty humor.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'prank' comes from the Middle English term 'pranke,' meaning to show off or flaunt.
- In the 17th century, pranks were often associated with the celebration of April Fool's Day, a day for harmless tricks.
- Many ancient cultures had similar festivities where people played tricks on each other, often to welcome spring.
Pop Culture
- Television shows like 'Punk'd' popularized pranking in the early 2000s by surprising celebrities.
- YouTube has countless channels dedicated to pranks, showcasing everything from light-hearted jokes to elaborate setups.
- Horror-themed pranks are popular in movies, often leading to funny or scary situations.
Psychology
- Pranking can strengthen friendships, as shared laughter can enhance social bonds.
- Psychological studies suggest that people who enjoy playful banter and pranks often have a higher sense of humor.
- However, when pranks go too far, they can lead to feelings of betrayal or anger, highlighting the importance of knowing boundaries.
Literature
- Pranks appear in Shakespeareโs works, notably in 'A Midsummer Nightโs Dream,' where characters are tricked in humorous ways.
- Children's literature often includes pranks as a way to teach lessons about friendship and kindness.
- Famous novels, such as 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,' feature characters who engage in pranks that define their personalities.
Ethics
- Pranking can raise ethical questions about consent and the potential for harm, emphasizing the importance of respect.
- Comedy that relies on a prank can be entertaining, but it should not humiliate or endanger others in the name of fun.
- Understanding cultural differences in humor is essential, as what constitutes a prank in one culture may be offensive in another.
Origin of 'pranks'
The word 'pranks' originated from the Middle Dutch word 'pronken' which means to show off or strut. Over time, the meaning evolved to include playful tricks or jokes. Pranks have been a common form of amusement and entertainment throughout history, often used to lighten the mood or create laughter among friends and family.
See also: prank, prankish, prankishness, prankster.