a person who is fond of joking, a playing card, typically bearing a picture of a jester, used in some games as a wild card

play the joker, the joker in the pack, be no joke

Formal and Informal Expressions of joker

In different contexts, you can replace 'joker' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'humorist' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'prankster, trickster' is a commonplace synonym.

joker: Explore its Definition & Usage

joker Definition

1a person who is fond of joking
2a playing card, typically bearing a picture of a jester, used in some games as a wild card

Using joker: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "joker" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He's such a joker, always making everyone laugh.
Example
The joker can be used as a wild card in this game.
Example
I need to remove the jokers from the deck before we play.

joker Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for joker

Phrases with joker

play the joker
to use a trick or deception to gain an advantage
Example
He played the joker and managed to win the game.
the joker in the pack
a person or thing that is unpredictable and likely to have a significant effect on the outcome of a situation
Example
The weather is always the joker in the pack when planning an outdoor event.
be no joke
to be a serious matter
Example
The amount of work required for this project is no joke.

Origins of joker

from Middle English 'jogelour', meaning 'jester'

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Summary: joker in Brief

The term 'joker' [ˈdʒəʊkə] refers to a person who enjoys joking around or a playing card with a picture of a jester. It can be used as a wild card in some games, as in 'I need to remove the jokers from the deck before we play.' Phrases like 'play the joker' denote using trickery to gain an advantage, while 'the joker in the pack' refers to an unpredictable factor that can affect outcomes.