in joke

1 definition found

in joke - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Joke \Joke\, n. [L. jocus. Cf Jeopardy, Jocular, Juggler.]
     [1913 Webster]
     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.
        [1913 Webster]
  
              And gentle dullness ever loves a joke. --Pope.
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              Or witty joke our airy senses moves
              To pleasant laughter.                 --Gay.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. Something not said seriously, or not actually meant;
        something done in sport.
        [1913 Webster]
  
              Inclose whole downs in walls, 't is all a joke.
                                                    --Pope.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     In joke, in jest; sportively; not meant seriously.
  
     Practical joke. See under Practical.
        [1913 Webster]