jest
Jest (noun) means a remark or action meant as a joke rather than seriously. Example: “Only in jest," he added, seeing her face fall.”
How to Use Jest
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA joke, or the act of joking, especially something said playfully rather than meant literally.
The set phrase "in jest" means "as a joke, not seriously" — useful for softening or clarifying a comment.
Trace the full origin ↓Word Forms
jested past tense, jests plural, jests singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
"Only in _____," he added, seeing her face fall.
Etymology
From an Old French word for "deeds" or "exploits", which in English narrowed down over time from storytelling to joking around.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for jest
See all rhymes for jest →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “jest” mean?
The word “jest” means a remark or action meant as a joke rather than seriously. In plain terms, a joke, or the act of joking, especially something said playfully rather than meant literally.
How do you pronounce “jest”?
“Jest” is pronounced jehst (/d͡ʒɛst/ in IPA).
How do you use “jest” in a sentence?
Here is “jest” used in a sentence: “"Only in jest," he added, seeing her face fall.”
What part of speech is “jest”?
Depending on how it is used, “jest” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “jest” come from?
The word “jest” comes from Old French. From an Old French word for "deeds" or "exploits", which in English narrowed down over time from storytelling to joking around.
Is “jest” a common word?
“Jest” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “jest” have?
“Jest” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a remark or action meant as a joke rather than seriously.
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