Dictionary
clownish
adjective clown·ish \ˈklau̇-nish\
: like a clown : acting in a silly or funny way
Full Definition of CLOWNISH
: resembling or befitting a clown (as in ignorance and lack of sophistication)
— clown·ish·ly adverb
— clown·ish·ness noun
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First Known Use of CLOWNISH
1563
Synonym Discussion of CLOWNISH
boorish, churlish, loutish, clownish mean uncouth in manners or appearance. boorish implies rudeness of manner due to insensitiveness to others' feelings and unwillingness to be agreeable <a drunk's boorish behavior>. churlish suggests surliness, unresponsiveness, and ungraciousness <churlish remarks>. loutish implies bodily awkwardness together with stupidity <a loutish oaf>. clownish suggests ill-bred awkwardness, ignorance or stupidity, ungainliness, and often a propensity for absurd antics <an adolescent's clownish conduct>.
Rhymes with CLOWNISH
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