Synonyms for

Clowns

Verb / klaʊnz / Another word for clowns — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Clowns are entertainers who wear silly clothes and makeup, and perform funny acts to make people laugh.

Synonyms & similar words

goofball buffoon clownaround clown goof merryandrew antic jester comedian entertainer buffoon fool mime harlequin joker merrymaker punchinello satirist zany funnyman humorist prankster trickster droll mummer pantomimist clownish

Synonyms by register

Formal

buffoons jesters mountebanks harlequins

Informal

goofballs clowns fools idiots numbskulls

Literary

zany figures merrymakers jesters motley figures

Antonyms

stoics serious people dignitaries dignified individuals somber figures dignified persons

Common collocations

  • clowns at a circus
  • sad clowns
  • scary clowns
  • clowns performing
  • clowns juggling
  • clowns making jokes

Word family

noun clown
verb clown around
adjective clownish

Usage note

While 'clown' can refer to a professional entertainer, it is also often used informally to describe someone acting foolishly or ridiculously.

Example sentences

  1. The clowns at the birthday party made balloon animals for the children.
  2. The clown's big red nose honked every time someone squeezed it.
  3. I don't like scary clowns in horror movies.
  4. The circus clowns put on a hilarious show.
  5. The little boy dressed up as a clown for Halloween.

Quotes

  • I think clowns are creepy.
  • I always wanted to be a clown as a kid.
  • Clowns are the pegs on which the circus is hung.

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