clowning
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present participleof clown.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
clownnouna 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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Now even Dolly-esque clowning can’t save country music’s current stars from having to take unambiguous positions.
From Salon ● Aug. 27, 2026
Therapists sometimes even recommend their patients take clowning.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026
Danielle Smith, a union leader, discovered clowning after falling down an internet rabbit hole.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026
An audience expecting acrobatic basketball stunts and on-court clowning set to “Sweet Georgia Brown,” the Globetrotters’ signature song, was instead treated to a real, close-fought exhibition.
From Salon ● Aug. 19, 2026
She would miss Gid and her pinch-faced earnestness, yes, and Hasina too, with her wicked laugh and reckless clowning around.
From "A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini
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