clowning
|clown-ing|
B1
/ˈklaʊnɪŋ/
(clown)
comic entertainer
Etymology
Etymology Information
'clown' originates from Scandinavian, specifically the word 'klunni,' where 'klunn-' meant 'clumsy person.'
Historical Evolution
'klunni' transformed into the English word 'clown' and eventually became the modern English word 'clowning' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a clumsy person,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'acting in a silly or playful manner.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
acting in a silly or playful manner, often to entertain others.
He was clowning around to make the children laugh.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45