Definition
A person who is always making attempts to be funny, but often ends up being foolish or annoying instead.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun
Synonyms
clown, jester, fool, joker, prankster, harlequin, court jester, comic, comedian, wag, merry-andrew, zany, jack-pudding, tomfool.
Antonyms
serious person, straight man, dignified person, statesperson.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | buffoons, buffoon |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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Everyone at the party was laughing at the buffoon’s outrageous antics, but I found him to be quite annoying.
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The buffoon on stage at the comedy club was struggling to connect with the audience.
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The king’s court jester was expected to be a buffoon and entertain the guests with his foolish antics.
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Despite his reputation as a buffoon, the clown had a heart of gold and spent much of his time volunteering for charity.
Usage
The word “buffoon” is most commonly used to describe a person who tries to be funny or entertaining, but often ends up being foolish, annoying or irritating instead. It is often associated with clowns, jesters or comedians who use physical humor and exaggerated gestures to elicit laughter from their audience. The word has a somewhat negative connotation and is often used to describe someone who is not taken seriously or who lacks respect or credibility.
There are no common prefixes, suffixes or variations of the word “buffoon”. However, the root word “buffoon” is derived from the French word “buffon” which means “jester” or “clown”. The word “buffoonery” is sometimes used to describe the behavior or actions of a buffoon. “Buffoonery” means silly, foolish or ridiculous behavior that is intended to amuse others.
The word “buffoon” has been used in literature, movies, and theater for many years. Shakespeare used the word in his play “The Winter’s Tale”, and it has since appeared in countless other works of literature. In film and television, the buffoon is often portrayed as a hapless, bumbling character who provides comic relief to the story.
In everyday conversation, the word “buffoon” is not commonly used, but it is still recognized as a colorful and appropriate word to describe a person who is acting foolishly or trying too hard to be funny. When used appropriately, the word can add color and dimension to a story or situation, and help to convey a particular tone or message.