Jest
/dʒɛst/
Definitions
2 meaningsA playful remark or action, or a joke.
/dʒɛst/
A thing said or done for amusement; a joke.
He made a jest about his boss's bad haircut.
💡 Simply: A *jest* is like a little surprise of fun words or actions, like when you tell a silly joke to make someone smile. It's something light and funny!
👶 For kids: A jest is like when you say something funny to make someone laugh.
More Examples
The comedian's act was full of clever jests.
She took his jest in good humor.
How It's Used
"Her comment was intended as a jest, but it offended some people."
"The play was filled with lighthearted jests and witty dialogue."
To make a joke or speak playfully.
/dʒɛst/
To speak or act in a joking manner; to joke.
He was just jesting when he said he'd eat the whole pizza.
💡 Simply: To *jest* is to make a joke or be playful with words. It's like when you tease your friend to make them laugh!
👶 For kids: To jest is to make jokes.
More Examples
The friends jested with each other about their old school days.
She jested about the weather.
How It's Used
"He was just jesting; he didn't really mean to upset her."
"The knights jested with each other before the tournament."
Idioms & expressions
in jest
Not seriously; as a joke.
"He said he would quit his job, but it was only in jest."
From Old French *giste* 'deed, exploit,' then a joke or tale, from Latin *gesta* 'things done, deeds,' past participle of *gerere* 'to carry on, perform.'
The word 'jest' has been used in English since the 13th century, originating from Old French. It was often used in literature to describe playful banter and humorous situations.
Memory tip
Think of a fun *gesture* you make during a joke; it's a jest!
Word Origin
"deeds, exploits"