clownish

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Both McAdams and O’Brien move beyond expectations to deliver highly expressive, almost clownish performances — in the best way.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2026

In Europe, it was fought against Nazi Germany and Adolf Hitler, a tyrant and true monster, and against Italy and Benito Mussolini, a clownish but vile Fascist.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 10, 2025

At once menacing and clownish, Martin consistently tripped over his own incompetence, mendacity, and ignorance, ultimately dooming his chances of confirmation.

From Slate • May 10, 2025

Lewin is avuncular without seeming overbearing, which is key in a story about a creepy yet bizarrely clownish killer.

From Salon • Apr. 21, 2024

The nurse—short with curly hair and a clownish face—reaches to the hooks behind her and unfurls a blood pressure gauge.

From "It’s Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini