Prankster Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คช
prankster
[หprรฆลkstษr ]
Definition
funny
A person who plays practical jokes on others, typically for amusement and entertainment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prankster |
Same as above: Used to describe someone who plays practical jokes and light-hearted, usually harmless, tricks. It often implies a playful and mischievous personality.
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| trickster |
Describes someone who deceives or cheats people, often in a cunning or clever manner. This term can have both a mischievous and a negative connotation depending on the intent.
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| joker |
This term is often used for someone who tells jokes or makes funny remarks. It is typically considered light-hearted and good-natured.
|
| hoaxer |
Refers to someone who deliberately deceives others, often creating a false story or situation. This term tends to have a negative connotation due to the intent to mislead.
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Examples of usage
- The prankster hid whoopee cushions under all the chairs in the classroom.
- The prankster put fake spiders in his friend's bed.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- Many famous comedians and entertainers, like Ashton Kutcher and his show 'Punk'd', have popularized the concept of a prankster in modern culture.
- In Japanese culture, the tradition of 'Tanuki' (raccoon dogs) represents playful tricksters, reflecting the universality of playful deception.
Psychology
- Research shows that pranksters often have a high level of creativity, using humor as a way to connect with others.
- Playing pranks can increase social bonds when done in a lighthearted spirit, although it's crucial to consider the feelings of others.
Literature
- In children's literature, characters like trickster figures, such as 'Loki' in Norse mythology, embody the qualities of a prankster.
- Mark Twain's 'Tom Sawyer' features pranks that highlight childhood mischief and the joy it brings, demonstrating the spirit of play.
Modern Technology
- With the rise of social media, pranksters have found new platforms for their tricks, using videos to entertain and sometimes outrage viewers.
- 'Prank call' apps and prank video channels have become popular, showing the evolution of practical jokes in the digital age.
Origin of 'prankster'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'prank' comes from Middle Dutch 'pranken', which means to play a trick or to show off.
- It first appeared in English around the late 16th century, often implying a playful or mischievous spirit.
The word 'prankster' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'prank' (a practical joke or mischievous act) with the agent suffix '-ster'. It is commonly used to describe someone who enjoys playing tricks or jokes on others in a light-hearted manner.
See also: prank, prankish, prankishness, pranks.