Entry Word: clown

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a comically dressed performer (as at a circus) who entertains with playful tricks and ridiculous behavior <a clown wearing big floppy shoes and a red wig>

Synonyms buffoon, harlequin, zany

Related Words cutup, madcap; fool, jester, motley; mime, mummer; comedian, comedienne, comic, joker, jokester, wag

2 a person whose behavior is offensive to others <you should stay away from that clown> — see jerk 1