Joke, n. [L. jocus. Cf
Jeopardy, Jocular, Juggler.]
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.
And gentle dullness ever loves a
joke.
Pope.
Or witty joke our airy senses moves
To pleasant laughter.
Gay.
2. Something not said seriously, or not
actually meant; something done in sport.
Inclose whole downs in walls, 't is all a
joke.
Pope.
In joke, in jest; sportively; not meant
seriously. -- Practical joke. See under
Practical.
Joke, v. i. [L. jocari.] To
do something for sport, or as a joke; to be merry in words or
actions; to jest.
He laughed, shouted, joked, and
swore.
Macaulay.
Syn. -- To jest; sport; rally; banter. See Jest.
Joke, v. t. [imp. & p.
p. Joked (?); p. pr. & vb. n.
Joking.] To make merry with; to make jokes upon; to
rally; to banter; as, to joke a comrade.