Joker (noun / UK slang)
(Also heard as: Absolute joker, Proper joker, What a joker)
Definition:
-
The mate who never takes anything seriously and keeps everybody laughing.
-
A total clown or time-waster who shouldn’t be trusted with a simple job.
Pronunciation: /ˈdʒəʊ.kər/
Where It Comes From: Started with medieval court jesters and the spare card in a deck, but British working-class slang gave it a sharper edge. Over decades of pub banter and terrace chat, it split into two jobs: laughing with someone who brings good vibes, or taking the mick out of someone completely useless.
How People Actually Use It: It all comes down to how you say it. Say it laughing over a pint, and it’s a compliment for a funny pal. Say it with an eye-roll on a job site or in an office, and you’re writing someone off as a cowboy who hasn’t got a clue.
Examples in the Wild:
-
“Gaz had the entire table in stitches—he’s a proper joker.”
Translation: Gary is hilarious and kept everyone entertained.
-
“Don’t bother hiring him, he’s an absolute joker.”
Translation: Don’t pay him for that work, he’s totally unreliable.
-
“Look at him trying to skip the queue, what a joker.”
Translation: Who does this bloke think he is pushing in front of people?
Similar Slang: Clown, Muppet, Chancer, Wind-up merchant, Wally, Prat
Contribute To This Page