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.

Clowning, an ancient art form that includes but is not limited to the red wigs and big shoes of the circus, is difficult to define.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2025

The winner of the Clowning Achievement: Denise Downer realized it was just no fun watching sad movies with Amy Schadenfreude.

From Washington Post • Dec. 23, 2021

Clowning and exaggerating, gyrating and waving her arms, Ms. Baker contrived to use and subvert the stereotypes, ridiculing them through what Mr. Macron called her use of the “burlesque.”

From New York Times • Nov. 30, 2021

Clowning, including trips to performances, became just a regular part of life for the Hebert family, which also included the couple’s two daughters, Melissa and Karen.

From Washington Times • Feb. 4, 2020

Clowning it is to caper in this style, Trying to make a foot-cloth of my banner.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 98, January 18, 1890 by Burnand, F. C. (Francis Cowley), Sir