Practical joke

Practical joke
Joke Joke, n. [L. jocus. Cf {Jeopardy}, {Jocular}, {Juggler}.] [1913 Webster] 1. Something said for the sake of exciting a laugh; something witty or sportive (commonly indicating more of hilarity or humor than jest); a jest; a witticism; as, to crack good-natured jokes. [1913 Webster]

And gentle dullness ever loves a joke. --Pope. [1913 Webster]

Or witty joke our airy senses moves To pleasant laughter. --Gay. [1913 Webster]

2. Something not said seriously, or not actually meant; something done in sport. [1913 Webster]

Inclose whole downs in walls, 't is all a joke. --Pope. [1913 Webster]

{In joke}, in jest; sportively; not meant seriously.

{Practical joke}. See under {Practical}. [1913 Webster]


The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.

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