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

New assistant coach Alice Chilton is a blatant remodeling of Roy Kent — a brusque ex-soccer player who’s reluctant to engage with Ted’s tomfoolery or personal prodding — but Tanya Reynolds’ performance is equal turns wounded and witty.

— Ben Travers, IndieWire, 5 Aug. 2026
Between their champagne problems and flirty tomfoolery, Anna disappears, initiating a futile rescue search.

— Maggie Turner, Air Mail, 25 July 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

The slapstick feature follows an underdog women’s soccer squad that incorporates gravity-defying martial arts maneuvers to compete for a championship title.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 3 Aug. 2026
Beyond that slapstick start, there is a rich history of women’s baseball in Illinois.

— Kendra Nordin Beato, Christian Science Monitor, 31 July 2026