jest

UK: dʒest | US: dʒest

Definition

  1. n. a playful or humorous remark; a joke

  2. vi. to speak or act in a joking manner

Structure
je <play>st <noun suffix>
Etymology

jest = je<play> + st<noun suffix>

  • je (from Old French geste "action, exploit," later "playful act," from Latin gesta "deeds, exploits," from gerere "to carry out")
  • st (a noun-forming suffix, often indicating a state or quality)

Etymology Origin:
The word "jest" traces back to the Latin gesta (deeds), which evolved in Old French to mean playful acts or jokes. Over time, it shed its heroic connotations and narrowed to lighthearted humor in English. The suffix "-st" helps nominalize the playful action, solidifying its modern meaning.

Examples

  1. She replied in jest, but he took her words seriously.

  2. His constant jesting made the meeting more enjoyable.

  3. "Don’t jest about such serious matters," she warned.

  4. The comedian’s jests had the audience roaring with laughter.

  5. It began as a jest, but soon turned into a heated debate.