clownery

American  

[klou-nuh-ree] / ˈklaʊ nə ri /

noun

plural

clowneries

1. clownish behavior.

2. an instance of this.

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Etymology

Origin of clownery

First recorded in 1580–90; clown + -ery

Example Sentences

At its center, the rubbery Tews gamely serves up a wide range of pre-sound clownery, from deadpan reactions to crazy-eyed exuberance.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2024

The clownery that ensues around this plot point cannot be overstated.

From New York Times • Jun. 22, 2023

There's very little of the youthful clownery in this iteration of his royal, which leaves more room for other players to take up space.

From Salon • Mar. 5, 2021

So, as is always the case, when you do clownery, the clown comes back to bite.

From Slate • Dec. 11, 2019

Nay, out of doubt he does well, for a gentleman to imitate: but I warrant you, he becomes his natural carriage of the gentleman, much better than his clownery.

From Every Man out of His Humour by Jonson, Ben