Joke \Joke\, n. [L. jocus. Cf Jeopardy, Jocular, Juggler.]
[1913 Webster]
1. Something said for the sake of exciting a laugh; something
witty or sportive (commonly indicating more of hilarity or
humor than jest); a jest; a witticism; as, to crack
good-natured jokes.
[1913 Webster]
And gentle dullness ever loves a joke. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
Or witty joke our airy senses moves
To pleasant laughter. --Gay.
[1913 Webster]
2. Something not said seriously, or not actually meant;
something done in sport.
[1913 Webster]
Inclose whole downs in walls, 't is all a joke.
--Pope.
[1913 Webster]
In joke, in jest; sportively; not meant seriously.
Practical joke. See under Practical.
[1913 Webster]
Source: The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
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