Synonyms for

Joke

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

Definition

A joke is something said or done to make people laugh or feel amused, especially a short story with a punchline.

Synonyms & similar words

jape prank trick laugh jocularity gag caper puton jest antic quip gag witticism prank trick hoax humor jest one-liner pun wisecrack punchline rib-tickler yarn

Synonyms by register

Formal

jest quip witticism

Informal

gag prank hoot laugh

Literary

jest sport mirth

Antonyms

seriousness gravity earnestness solemnity tragedy sadness

Common collocations

  • tell a joke
  • make a joke
  • a bad joke
  • a good joke
  • a practical joke
  • the punchline of a joke
  • a running joke

Word family

noun joke
verb joke
adjective joking

Usage note

While 'joke' can be used as a verb, it is more commonly used as a noun. The adjective form is 'joking'.

Example sentences

  1. The comedian told a really funny joke about his dog.
  2. My little brother loves to play practical jokes on me.
  3. I always enjoy a good pun or one-liner.
  4. She told us a hilarious story that had us all laughing.
  5. I didn't mean to offend anyone, I was just joking around.

Quotes

  • Laughter is the best medicine, but if you're laughing for no reason, you need medicine.
  • I love jokes... but only the ones that don't make me think too hard.
  • I don't always tell dad jokes, but when I do, he laughs.

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