Langimage
English

punning

|pun-ning|

B2

/ˈpʌnɪŋ/

(pun)

wordplay

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounAdjectiveAdverb
punpunspunspunnedpunnedpunningpunsterpunnypunnily
Etymology
Etymology Information

'pun' originates from English, possibly derived from the earlier English word 'pundigrion', where 'pundigrion' referred to a 'clown' or 'quibbler'.

Historical Evolution

'pun' changed from the earlier English word 'pundigrion' and was shortened over time to the modern English word 'pun'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a clown or quibbler', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a play on words'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the act of making puns; a play on words

His constant punning annoyed the teacher.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

present participle form of 'pun' (to make a pun)

He is punning again.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/09/30 22:55