To do or say something for amusement rather than seriously.
"She told a silly story just to joke and make everyone laugh during the serious meeting."
In plain English: To joke means to say something funny that you know isn't true just for fun.
"My friend likes to joke about my cooking skills at every dinner party."
Usage: Use this verb when someone intentionally says or does something to amuse others, often distinguishing it from serious statements of fact. Be careful not to confuse the action with the noun form, which refers specifically to a humorous story or remark itself.
Example Sentences
"My friend likes to joke about my cooking skills at every dinner party."verb
"She joked about her messy hair to lighten the mood."verb
"The comedian joked around with the audience until everyone laughed."verb
"He joked that he might quit his job next week, but it was just for fun."verb
The word "joke" comes from the Latin iocus, meaning a jest or pastime. It traveled into English through French after originally referring to any playful saying in ancient languages.