Definitions

from the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English.

  • noun acting like a clown or buffoon.
  • noun a comic incident or series of incidents.

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

  • verb Present participle of clown.

from WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.

  • noun acting like a clown or buffoon
  • noun a comic incident or series of incidents

Etymologies

from The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 4th Edition

[So called because some krumpers wear clown makeup and attire while performing.]

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Examples

  • Bangkok - Spaniard Alvaro Neil is giving new meaning to the phrase clowning around the world.

    The Earth Times Online Newspaper 2010

  • She wearied of Rose's talkativeness, regarded the child's brightness as a kind of clowning, and in the way of a kind, unlettered, self-possessed mother, forgave her daughter for being intelligent.

    Beard 2010

  • She is putting on a show and 'clowning' for her audience.

    Does Science Fiction, in Fact, Suck? 2007

  • They used "clowning" as a way to bring a lighter side to the protests and publish a local newsletter called the Cambrian Snooze.

    REPORT ON SPEAKING TOUR TO ENGLAND, WALES, AND SCOTLAND 2007

  • According to a federal criminal complaint, Amon Paul Carlock took the illicit photos during a "clowning" trip to the House of Joy orphanage earlier this year.

    If You Meet a Clown in Illinois, Run the Other Way 2007

  • According to a federal criminal complaint, Amon Paul Carlock took the illicit photos during a "clowning" trip to the House of Joy orphanage earlier this year.

    If You Meet a Clown in Illinois, Run the Other Way 2007

  • The lipstick could have signified anything -- maybe some kind of clowning around by the drunk before he fell asleep.

    Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine 2004

  • The lipstick could have signified anything -- maybe some kind of clowning around by the drunk before he fell asleep.

    Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine 2004

  • Our music-hall performers have invented a kind of clowning peculiar to this country, in which kicking and leaping are also a part of the business.

    Plays, Acting and Music A Book Of Theory Arthur Symons 1905

  • Drawing from various theatrical traditions, such as clowning, pantomime, charades, acrobatics and vaudeville, "Godspell" is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love.

    BroadwayWorld.com Featured Content 2010

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