joker

American  

[joh-ker] / ˈdʒoʊ kər /

noun

1. a person who jokes.

2. one of two extra playing cards in a pack, usually imprinted with the figure of a jester, used in some games as the highest card or as a wild card.

3. U.S. Politics. a clause or expression inserted in a legislative bill with the unavowed object of defeating the ostensible purpose of the bill if passed.

4. a seemingly minor, unsuspected clause or wording that is put into an agreement, legal document, etc., to change its effect.

5. an unexpected or final fact, factor, or condition that changes or reverses a situation or result completely.

   He gave her a beautiful diamond engagement ring, but the joker was that it was stolen!

6. any method, trick, or expedient for getting the better of another.

   They pulled a joker on us to get better seats.

7. Informal. a man; fellow; chap.

   That joker is earning twice as much as I am.

8. a person who thinks they are very funny; prankster.

   Who's the joker who frosted the cake with shaving cream?

9. Informal. a wise guy; wiseacre; smart aleck.

   Tell that joker to stop using my parking space.

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joker British  

/ ˈdʒəʊkə /

noun

1. a person who jokes, esp in an obnoxious manner

2. slang a person

   who does that joker think he is?

3. an extra playing card in a pack, which in many card games can substitute for or rank above any other card

4. a clause or phrase inserted in a legislative bill in order to make the bill inoperative or to alter its apparent effect

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Etymology

Origin of joker

First recorded in 1720–30; joke + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Burry is just as likely to be dismissed on social media, where jokers trot out a version of a wisecrack that he predicted 20 of the last two recessions.

From The Wall Street Journal

Miles Hart was sociable, clever and witty - the joker of the group.

From BBC

Because I know you're one of the jokers in the dressing room as well.

From BBC

Ms Parker said she was always a joker in school and now believes that was a way of masking to blend in with others.

From BBC

The wild-card series is a joker compared to the waiting full house.

From Los Angeles Times