jest

Definition

An act performed for amusement; a joke.

Etymology

From Middle English geste (“idle tale”), from Old French geste (“acts, exploits”), from Latin gesta (“acts, deeds”). Doublet of gest.

Example Sentences

• "I made that comment in jest; it wasn't serious."
• "Alas poore Yorick, I knew him Horatio, a fellow of infinite Ieſt; […]"
• "Your majesty, stop him before he makes you the jest of the court."