joker

[ joh-ker ]

noun

1. a person who jokes.
2. one of two extra playing cards in a pack, usually imprinted with the figure of a jester, used in some games as the highest card or as a wild card.
3. U.S. Politics. a clause or expression inserted in a legislative bill with the unavowed object of defeating the ostensible purpose of the bill if passed.
4. a seemingly minor, unsuspected clause or wording that is put into an agreement, legal document, etc., to change its effect.
5. an unexpected or final fact, factor, or condition that changes or reverses a situation or result completely:

   He gave her a beautiful diamond engagement ring, but the joker was that it was stolen!

6. any method, trick, or expedient for getting the better of another:

   They pulled a joker on us to get better seats.

7. Informal. a man; fellow; chap:

   That joker is earning twice as much as I am.

8. a person who thinks they are very funny; prankster:

   Who's the joker who frosted the cake with shaving cream?

9. Informal. a wise guy; wiseacre; smart aleck:

   Tell that joker to stop using my parking space.

joker

/ ˈdʒəʊkə /

noun

1. a person who jokes, esp in an obnoxious manner
2. slang.
   a person

   who does that joker think he is?

3. an extra playing card in a pack, which in many card games can substitute for or rank above any other card
4. a clause or phrase inserted in a legislative bill in order to make the bill inoperative or to alter its apparent effect

Word History and Origins

Origin of joker¹

First recorded in 1720–30; joke + -er ¹

Example Sentences

If “Joker: Folie à Deux” showed us anything, it’s that there can be blissful magic even when two sociopaths fall in love.

From Los Angeles Times

A subtle camera push heightens the alluring atmosphere that paints a portrait of quintessential Joker: juxtaposing beauty with anarchy.

From Los Angeles Times

Among the titles that have our writing staff stoked: “Gladiator II,” “Wicked,” “Joker: Folie à Deux,” “Blitz,” “Anora,” “We Live in Time” and “The Apprentice.”

From Los Angeles Times

Among the titles that have our writing staff stoked: “Gladiator II,” “Wicked,” “Joker: Folie à Deux,” “Blitz,” “Anora,” “We Live in Time” and “The Apprentice.”

From Los Angeles Times

Harley Quinn, before her great emancipation, was the ultimate gangster moll existing at and for the pleasure of The Joker.

From Salon