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clowns

  • plural
    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.
  • present tense form
    of clown (3rd person singular).
    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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For all its clowns and pratfalls, it’s quietly one of television’s great food shows.

From Salon Jun. 30, 2026

A brass band played lively jazz, while a man made giant bubbles with a pair of sticks and clowns sold balloon animals.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 7, 2026

Say you don’t pay much attention to the nitty-gritty of politics and think they’re all a bunch of clowns.

From Slate Apr. 18, 2026

Last year, for instance, was a “hell hotel,” with rooms themed to demented clowns or terror at sea.

From Los Angeles Times Oct. 28, 2025

Balloons, face paint, clowns, barbecue, games, and music.

From "Monday's Not Coming" by Tiffany D. Jackson