adj
C1
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zany
ZAY-nee
Zany (adj) means Wildly comic, eccentric, or amusingly outlandish in behavior or style. Example: “The film is full of zany characters and slapstick chases.”
adj
1
Wildly comic, eccentric, or amusingly outlandish in behavior or style.
"The film is full of zany characters and slapstick chases."
"Her zany sense of humor kept the office entertained all week."
How to use zany
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSilly and comical in a way that's a bit over-the-top or unpredictable.
Common pairings
zany humor
zany antics
a zany plot
zany character
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Word forms
- Plural
- zanies
- Third person singular
- zanies
- Past tense
- zanied
- Comparative
- zanier
- Superlative
- zaniest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The film is full of _____ characters and slapstick chases.
Etymology
From Italian zanni, the name of a clowning stock character in old Italian comedy, itself a form of the name Giovanni (John).
Related words
Rhymes for zany
See all rhymes for zany →Frequently asked questions
What does “zany” mean?
The word “zany” means wildly comic, eccentric, or amusingly outlandish in behavior or style. In plain terms, silly and comical in a way that's a bit over-the-top or unpredictable.
How do you pronounce “zany”?
“Zany” is pronounced ZAY-nee (/ˈzeɪni/ in IPA).
How do you use “zany” in a sentence?
Here is “zany” used in a sentence: “The film is full of zany characters and slapstick chases.”
What is another word for “zany”?
Words with a similar meaning to “zany” include wacky.
What part of speech is “zany”?
“Zany” is an adjective.
Where does the word “zany” come from?
The word “zany” comes from Italian. From Italian zanni, the name of a clowning stock character in old Italian comedy, itself a form of the name Giovanni (John).
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