online vocabulary.com

Buffoonery - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Buffoonery refers to foolish or ridiculous behavior, often intended to amuse others. It involves exaggerated antics, clownish actions, or absurd humor, typically lacking seriousness or dignity.

buffoonery

/bəˈfuːnəri/ /bəˈfuːnəri/

Definition:

Ridiculous or clownish behavior intended to amuse or mock others.

Synonyms:

clowning, tomfoolery, antics, silliness

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

seriousness, solemnity

Common Collocations:

political buffoonery, childish buffoonery, public buffoonery

Derivatives:

buffoon, buffoonish

Usage Tips:

Use "buffoonery" to describe absurd or foolish behavior, often in a humorous or mocking context.

Common Phrases:

court jester's buffoonery, theatrical buffoonery, political buffoonery

Etymology:

Derived from Italian "buffone," meaning jester or clown, via French "bouffon."

Examples:

  • 1. His constant buffoonery made the class laugh but annoyed the teacher.
  • 2. The politician's speech was full of exaggerated buffoonery rather than serious debate.
  • 3. She tired of his childish buffoonery during important meetings.
  • 4. The play relied on slapstick and buffoonery to entertain the audience.
  • 5. Their pranks crossed the line from fun to outright buffoonery.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS