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clownish

  • a word derived from 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.

Example Sentences

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What fabulous representatives these are of the country that Europe once looked upon with gratitude and respect: clownish, crude and stupid all at once.

From Salon Jun. 9, 2026

As for Mr. Trump, he watched as the clownish Ms. Bondi did her best to effect his retribution.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 8, 2026

At once menacing and clownish, Martin consistently tripped over his own incompetence, mendacity, and ignorance, ultimately dooming his chances of confirmation.

From Slate May 10, 2025

The kind that found its zenith in Todd Phillips’ 2019 take on Batman’s clownish foe.

From Los Angeles Times Apr. 11, 2024

I needed to laugh at the clownish display.

From "Hunger of Memory" by Richard Rodriguez