Definition

A person who acts silly or foolish, often to make others laugh; someone who is not taken seriously.

Example

He acted like a buffoon at the party, making everyone laugh with his silly antics.

Conversation

Did you see that guy at the party acting like such a buffoon?

Yeah, he was so over the top; it was hard to take him seriously.

I know, right? It was like he was trying too hard to be funny.

Exactly! Sometimes being a buffoon just makes things awkward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Buffoon originates from the Italian word 'buffone', meaning a clown or jester, which is derived from 'buffare' (meaning to puff or blow). The word describes a person who acts foolishly or comically, often to entertain others.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'clown' or 'jester' when you hear 'buffoon', as it refers to someone who acts foolishly for entertainment.

Visually Confused Words