Definition

The quality of being amusingly unconventional or eccentric.

Example

The zaniness of the comedy show kept everyone laughing throughout the night.

Conversation

Did you see that comedy show last night?

Yes! The zaniness of the characters was hilarious.

I couldn’t stop laughing at all their crazy antics.

Right? It made the whole experience so much fun!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Zaniness → The word 'zaniness' is derived from 'zany' (from Italian 'zanni', meaning a comic servant or clown) and the suffix '-ness' (meaning the state or quality of). Thus, 'zaniness' refers to the state or quality of being zany or comically foolish.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'comic servant' ('zanni') to remember that 'zaniness' means the quality of being comically foolish.

Visually Confused Words