as in pranks
a playful or mischievous act intended as a joke
friends had left the risqué message on his voice mail as a practical joke
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Recent Examples of practical jokes
One of Hughes’ neighbors, Ty Talley, said the toilet paper prank was part of tradition in which North Hall students play practical jokes on teachers during prom season.
—
Charlotte Kramon, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026
As trade envoy, Andrew became known for practical jokes and off-color remarks, which British diplomats had to tolerate because of his titles.
—Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026
With over 300 episodes to shoot, there was time for some practical jokes.
—Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Sep. 2025
Charlotte Kramon, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026
As trade envoy, Andrew became known for practical jokes and off-color remarks, which British diplomats had to tolerate because of his titles.
—Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026
With over 300 episodes to shoot, there was time for some practical jokes.
—Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for practical jokes
Noun
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Of course, the pranks are all in good fun, with owners keeping things safe and playful.—
Kendall Malinchock,
USA Today,
1 Apr. 2026
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According to a 2025 roundup of April Fools’ food promotions by the New York Post, several national brands followed Dunkin’s lead by offering tangible rewards instead of traditional pranks.—
Amanda Greenwood,
MSNBC Newsweek,
1 Apr. 2026
Noun
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The Breakfast Ride and Cowboy Cookout are two unique dining experiences the whole family will love, and adult guests will appreciate the new spa planned for late 2027.—
Julie Bielenberg,
USA Today,
4 Apr. 2026
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More than 200 auction items donated by foundation members, local businesses and artists include antiques, artwork, garden supplies and experiences, the release said.—
Aurora Beacon-News,
Chicago Tribune,
3 Apr. 2026
Noun
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Tiffany has a few tricks up its sleeve that aren’t jewelry or limited-edition chronograph, one of which is this shapely teapot.—
Nicole Hoey,
Robb Report,
31 Mar. 2026
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Maybe the tricks learned during this trial can help drivers form some better, cheaper habits to continue when gas prices inevitably decrease again.—
Doug Turnbull,
AJC.com,
29 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Johnston had been posting photos to Facebook of their adventures, camping and traversing snowy mountain peaks.—
Chris Lau,
CNN Money,
1 Apr. 2026
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Kathryn Romeyn is a freelance travel, design, and wellness journalist living in Los Angeles and Bali whose curiosity about the world leads her on frequent beautiful adventures.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
31 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Practical jokes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/practical%20jokes. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
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