Dictionary entry

Clown

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Clown (kloun), n. [Cf. Icel. klunni a clumsy, boorish fellow, North Fries. klönne clown, dial. Sw. klunn log, Dan. klunt log, block, and E. clump, n.] 1. A man of coarse nature and manners; an awkward fellow; an ill-bred person; a boor. Sir P. Sidney.

2. One who works upon the soil; a rustic; a churl.

The clown, the child of nature, without guile.

Cowper.

3. The fool or buffoon in a play, circus, etc.

The clown shall make those laugh whose lungs are tickle o'the sere.

Shak.