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noun Common

kidding

KIH-dihng
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Kidding (noun) means joking around or teasing someone in a playful, non-serious way. Example: “Stop the kidding for a moment, because I need a serious answer.”

noun
1
Joking around or teasing someone in a playful, non-serious way.
"Stop the kidding for a moment, because I need a serious answer."
"All the kidding aside, I really do appreciate your help."
"No kidding, that was an amazing performance."

How to use kidding

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPlayful teasing or joking, not meant seriously.

Common pairings
no kidding all kidding aside
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Word forms

Plural
kiddings
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Stop the _____ for a moment, because I need a serious answer.

Etymology

The -ing form of "kid" (to tease playfully).

joking teasing joshing jesting ribbing fooling around

Related words

Rhymes for kidding

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Frequently asked questions

What does “kidding” mean?
The word “kidding” means joking around or teasing someone in a playful, non-serious way. In plain terms, playful teasing or joking, not meant seriously.
How do you pronounce “kidding”?
“Kidding” is pronounced KIH-dihng (/ˈkɪdɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “kidding” in a sentence?
Here is “kidding” used in a sentence: “All the kidding aside, I really do appreciate your help.”
What part of speech is “kidding”?
“Kidding” is a noun.
Is “kidding” a common word?
“Kidding” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "kidding" and "joking"?
The two are close in meaning, both describing playful, non-serious teasing. "Kidding" is more casual and often aimed at a specific person, while "joking" can also mean telling jokes in general.
Is "kidding" formal or informal?
"Kidding" is informal and used mainly in casual, spoken English. In formal writing, "joking" or "teasing" is usually preferred.

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