joker

word

/ˈdʒoʊkɝ/
JOH-kur
/dʒˈəʊkɐ/
JOH-kuh

Definition

A 'joker' is a special playing card that can take the place of other cards, or a person who likes to tell jokes and make people laugh. It can also refer to a comic book villain.

Usage & Nuances

Used for both the card and a person who jokes; capitalized ('Joker') when referring to the comic villain. Common in both casual and card game contexts. In casual speech, calling someone a 'joker' is light and often affectionate, but can sometimes mean they are not taken seriously.

Example Sentences

He is a joker and always tries to make us laugh.

basic

You can use the joker in this card game.

basic

There is only one joker in a standard deck of cards.

basic

Don’t listen to him, he’s just being a joker.

natural

She pulled a joker and won the game at the very end!

natural

The Joker in Batman is one of the most famous villains.

natural