funny business

noun

: dishonest or improper activity

warned the students against any funny business during the test

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of funny business was in 1882

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funny book

funny business

funny car

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Style

“Funny business.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/funny%20business. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

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Last Updated: 4 Nov 2025 - Entry added

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funny business

noun

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