Words / A1

KLOWN/klaʊn/

A clown is a person in funny clothes, a painted face, and often a red nose, who makes people laugh at a circus or a party. Countable: a clown, clowns. An actor plays many parts; a clown is for jokes and tricks. A mask covers the face but is not a whole costume. Mix-up: crown (a king's hat) — extra r.

Meaning

A person in funny clothes and a red nose who makes people laugh, often at a circus.

Examples

• “The clown has a big red nose.”
• “The clown dropped the water bucket on purpose.”
• “Some children are afraid of clowns.”

Good to know

a clown (circus / party). Contrast: actor (many parts), mask (face only). Mix-up: crown.

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