Joke , n. [L. jocus. Cf Jeopardy, Jocular, Juggler.]

1. Something said for the sake of exciting a laugh; something witty or sportive (commonly indicating more of hilarity or humor than jest); a jest; a witticism; as, to crack good-natured jokes.

And gentle dullness ever loves a joke. Pope.

Or witty joke our airy senses moves To pleasant laughter. Gay.

2. Something not said seriously, or not actually meant; something done in sport.

"Inclose whole downs in walls, t is all a joke." Pope.

In joke, in jest; sportively; not meant seriously. -- Practical joke. See under Practical.

Joke , v. i. [L. jocari.] To do something for sport, or as a joke; to be merry in words or actions; to jest.

He laughed, shouted, joked, and swore. Macaulay.

Syn. -- To jest; sport; rally; banter. See Jest.

Joke , v. t. [imp. & p. p. Joked (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Joking.] To make merry with; to make jokes upon; to rally; to banter; as, to joke a comrade.

-- Webster's unabridged 1913