as in pranks
a playful or mischievous act intended as a joke
friends had left the risqué message on his voice mail as a practical joke
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Recent Examples of practical jokes
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.
—
Charlotte Kramon, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 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
With over 300 episodes to shoot, there was time for some practical jokes.
—Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Sep. 2025
Charlotte Kramon, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 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
With over 300 episodes to shoot, there was time for some practical jokes.
—Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for practical jokes
Noun
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Folks would dip dresses and suits in glowing, phosphorescent paint and wear them around town performing various pranks or artistic displays.—
Popular Science Team,
Popular Science,
25 Mar. 2026
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Some in the art world speculate Banksy orchestrated the unmasking himself as a publicity stunt, consistent with his history of subversive pranks and satire.—
Laurie Kellman,
Los Angeles Times,
23 Mar. 2026
Noun
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The global hospitality brand, which operates 133 hotels and resorts in 47 countries, is known for its impeccable service and immersive experiences and The Nam Hai is no exception.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
28 Mar. 2026
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There are legitimate reasons to complain about the authenticity of some experiences.—
Adam Kadlac,
The Conversation,
27 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Ball, who has been on a heater of late, set the tone early by showing off his full bag of tricks — shooting 3s off one foot, throwing no-look dimes and outleaping opponents for rebounds, seemingly toying with the Kings at times.—
CBS News,
CBS News,
25 Mar. 2026
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Through that rigorous daily routine, Chaser didn’t just learn tricks.—
Hanna Wickes,
Miami Herald,
23 Mar. 2026
Noun
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The most memorable Irish adventures don’t always begin at a castle or end in a pub.—
Condé Nast Traveler,
Condé Nast Traveler,
25 Mar. 2026
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Read on for permit-free swaps for some of the most coveted, reservation-only outdoor adventures.—
Madison Chapman,
Outside,
25 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Practical jokes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/practical%20jokes. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.
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