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clowning

  • present participle
    of clown.
    clown
    noun
    a comic performer, as in a circus, theatrical production, or the like, who wears an outlandish costume and makeup and entertains by pantomiming common situations or actions in exaggerated or ridiculous fashion, by juggling or tumbling, etc.

Example Sentences

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Now even Dolly-esque clowning can’t save country music’s current stars from having to take unambiguous positions.

From Salon ● Aug. 27, 2026

We spoke with several students who credit clowning with improving their lives.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026

Her colleagues and friends say clowning perfectly aligns with Smith’s natural curiosity and playfulness.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026

The wily, frizzy-haired Frenchman with red-framed spectacles taught Zucker everything he knows about clowning.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 25, 2026

Well, it got less silly after warm-up laps, stretching, and the usual clowning around.

From "Patina" by Jason Reynolds