prank

¹

[prangk]

noun

1. a trick of an amusing, playful, or sometimes malicious nature.

   Synonyms: shenanigan, antic, escapade, caper

prank

²

[prangk]

verb (used with object)

1. to dress or adorn in an ostentatious manner.

   They were all pranked out in their fanciest clothes.

verb (used without object)

1. to make an ostentatious show or display.

prank

¹

/ præŋk /

verb

1. (tr) to dress or decorate showily or gaudily

2. (intr) to make an ostentatious display

prank

²

/ præŋk /

noun

1. a mischievous trick or joke, esp one in which something is done rather than said

Other Word Forms

• unpranked adjective
• prankish adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of prank¹

First recorded in 1520–30; origin uncertain

Origin of prank²

1540–50; akin to Dutch pronken to show off, strut, pronk show, finery, Middle Low German prank pomp

Word History and Origins

Origin of prank¹

C16: from Middle Dutch pronken; related to German Prunk splendour, prangen to be in full splendour

Origin of prank²

C16: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

They said the devices could be seen from the ground and added that they couldn't rule out the activity being a prank.

From BBC

Beloved by players, even those frustrated by his reluctance to give lbw decisions, Bird was also the subject of countless pranks.

From BBC

But the exact meaning of the messages, if indeed they are intended to have any meaning at all beyond a prank, is still unclear.

From BBC

Videos of make-up tutorials, pranks, unboxing products - and lots of cooking.

From BBC

The “pranks” are part of a protest against the “toxic” environment in the crypto world, according to the report, and more such stunts have allegedly been planned.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• antic 
• gag 
• high jinks 
• horseplay 
• lark 
• spoof 
• trick 

When To Use

What is a prank call?

A prank call or crank call is when a person calls someone up to make a joke or play a trick on them. Teenagers may make prank calls to random people while comedians may use them to dupe political figures. Though meant to be humorous and playful, they can have serious consequences.