Thesaurus results for CLOWNERY

clownery

noun

ˈklau̇-nə-rē

Definition of clownery

as in clowning

wildly playful or mischievous behavior it was clownery like that that resulted in an expensive vase being broken

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of clownery Allow Yahya Abdul-Mateen II to clarify his remarks about Aquaman being the work of clowns with… some clownery. — Jessica Wang, EW.com, 1 Sep. 2022 Chronicle Books In the world of clownery, tradition has long dictated that a clown must never steal another clown’s look. — Constance Grady, Vox, 20 Aug. 2018 Seems as if the airlines are still clowning and being targeted with lawsuits because of the clownery. — Breanna Edwards, The Root, 14 May 2018

Recent Examples of Synonyms for clownery

Noun

The clowning might be a little too effortful.

— Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026
As the race unfolds in real time, there’s clowning, collisions, sabotage, surprises, comedy, chaos and more.

— Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Apr. 2026

Definition of clowning

Noun

Without Roberts in charge, expect the political and racial buffoonery to creep back into the conversation at ESPN.

— Bobby Burack OutKick, FOXNews.com, 30 Apr. 2026
The show, with its interest in corporate buffoonery, doesn’t quite manage to hand-wave away the queasy implications.

— Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026

Definition of buffoonery

Noun

This is the first sign of the kind of tomfoolery Luke has in store for the night.

— Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 14 July 2026
The project has been plagued by technical issues, supplier disputes, and alleged tomfoolery—empty mini tequila bottles were reportedly discovered on one of the airplanes under construction.

— Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 12 June 2026

Definition of tomfoolery

Noun

When horseplay turns into an impromptu hookup, neither of the young men fight the urge.

— David Fear, Rolling Stone, 17 June 2026
After France’s 4-3 victory against Argentina at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, horseplay between the players at the team hotel culminated in back-up centre-back Adil Rami setting off a fire extinguisher in the early hours of the morning.

— Tom Williams, New York Times, 17 May 2026

Definition of horseplay

Noun

As notorious as Cotliar was for his accurate calls on election night, impressive memory, love for college basketball and the Los Angeles Times, he was also known around the newsroom for his occasional near-slapstick temper.

— Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
Physical comedy and razor-sharp wit collide in this carnival of theatrical surprises — a masterful blend of classic French farce and contemporary slapstick that will leave audiences breathless with laughter, the news release states.

— News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 July 2026