practical joke
noun
: a prank intended to trick or embarrass someone or cause physical discomfort
practical joker
noun
Examples of practical joke in a Sentence
One of the children filled the sugar bowl with salt as a practical joke.
friends had left the risqué message on his voice mail as a practical joke
Recent Examples on the Web
One of Hughes’ neighbors, Ty Talley, said the toilet paper prank was part of tradition in which North Hall students play practical jokes on teachers during prom season.
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Charlotte Kramon, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026
With this testimony in mind, the reporters came to the conclusion that Dr. Ho Man Kwok was most likely the true author and Dr. Steel had taken credit for years as an elaborate practical joke.
—Caroline Tien, SELF, 23 Feb. 2026
As trade envoy, Andrew became known for practical jokes and off-color remarks, which British diplomats had to tolerate because of his titles.
—Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026
Everything about Groundhog Day sounds like a practical joke.
—Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 2 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for practical joke
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Charlotte Kramon, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026
With this testimony in mind, the reporters came to the conclusion that Dr. Ho Man Kwok was most likely the true author and Dr. Steel had taken credit for years as an elaborate practical joke.
—Caroline Tien, SELF, 23 Feb. 2026
As trade envoy, Andrew became known for practical jokes and off-color remarks, which British diplomats had to tolerate because of his titles.
—Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026
Everything about Groundhog Day sounds like a practical joke.
—Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 2 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for practical joke
Cite this Entry
“Practical joke.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/practical%20joke. Accessed 30 Mar. 2026.
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