practical joke

noun

1. a playful trick, often involving some physical agent or means, in which the victim is placed in an embarrassing or disadvantageous position.

practical joke

noun

1. a prank or trick usually intended to make the victim appear foolish

Derived Forms

• practical joker, noun

Other Words From

• practical joker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of practical joke¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Baseball players are notorious for playing practical jokes on one another.

From Los Angeles Times

Needless to say, the entire episode - which sounds like a youthful practical joke gone wrong, but took place when the candidate was 60 - is odd.

From BBC

We both worked hard but never prioritized our careers over a beautiful experience, a meaningful conversation, a unique meal, a practical joke.

From Los Angeles Times

Wygod loved business, his family, horses but he had a real passion for practical jokes.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's more likely a practical joke or someone attempting to create a smear campaign," he explained.

From BBC

Related Words

• prank