Definition

The quality or state of behaving in a silly or foolish way, similar to a clown.

Example

His clownishness made everyone laugh during the party.

Conversation

Did you see that performance last night?

Yeah, it was full of such delightful clownishness!

I loved how they made everyone laugh with their silly antics.

Exactly! It really brought a light-hearted vibe to the whole show.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clownishness → It is formed from "clown" (from Middle English *clown*, meaning a rustic or peasant) and "-ish" (meaning having the quality of) combined with "-ness" (meaning the state or condition of). The word "clownishness" refers to the state or quality of being like a clown, often implying foolishness or silliness.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'clown' as someone who acts in a silly or foolish way, and remember that 'clownishness' describes the quality of being like that.

Visually Confused Words