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buffone

buffoon

noun boof-FOH-neh Rare
People & Society Values

Origin: From Old Italian buffa (puff, jest), likely onomatopoeic.

Also means

clown

Usage Note

Buffone is masculine; the feminine buffona exists but is far less common. It is primarily an insult — 'stop playing the fool' is smettila di fare il buffone. In historical and theatrical contexts it refers to the court jester (il buffone di corte). Used toward a politician or public figure it carries sharp contempt.

Examples

"Non fare il buffone in classe!"

Natural Translation

Don't play the fool in class!

Literal Translation

Don't make the buffoon in class!

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