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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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Both McAdams and O’Brien move beyond expectations to deliver highly expressive, almost clownish performances — in the best way.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 30, 2026

In Europe, it was fought against Nazi Germany and Adolf Hitler, a tyrant and true monster, and against Italy and Benito Mussolini, a clownish but vile Fascist.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 10, 2025

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

Lewin is avuncular without seeming overbearing, which is key in a story about a creepy yet bizarrely clownish killer.

From Salon ● Apr. 21, 2024

Her face was sad now, droopy; but it wasn’t real, it was pretend, clownish.

From "Wringer" by Jerry Spinelli