1 B1 idiomatic informal
To act in a silly or funny way rather than behaving seriously.
"The students were clowning around at the back of the class and disturbing the lesson."
inseparable
clown around
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
To behave in a silly, playful, or comedic way for the amusement of others or simply for fun.
In plain English
To act silly and funny, like a clown, instead of being serious.
What does "clown around" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To act ('around') like a clown ('clown').
Actually means
To act silly and funny, like a clown, instead of being serious.
Usage tip
Common in American and international English. Can be affectionate or mildly critical depending on context. Often used to describe children, entertainers, or adults who are not taking a situation seriously.
Words that pair with "clown around"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
stage class friends children performance party
How to conjugate "clown around"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
clown around
I/you/we/they
3rd person
clowns around
he/she/it
Past simple
clowned around
yesterday
Past participle
clowned around
have + pp
-ing form
clowning around
continuous
Hear "clown around" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "clown around" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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