Buffoon
/bəˈfuːn/noun
A ridiculous but amusing person; a clown.
Did you know?Originally, 'buffoon' was associated with the act of making foolish gestures or sounds, reflecting how fools were often seen as possessing a kind of chaotic power in society.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
buffo
“A clown or jester, often performing absurd antics.”
16th Century
Old French
bufon
“A person who plays the fool; jester.”
17th Century
English
buffoon
“An entertainer who uses comical gestures or words, often imitating folly.”
Modern English
English
buffoon
“A person who amuses others by ridiculous behavior or jokes.”