kid around
Tease in fun
To kid around is to joke, tease, or engage in playful behavior without serious intent.
Someone who kids around might make silly remarks, pull harmless pranks, or generally refuse to be serious when others expect them to be.
Stop kidding around and help me with this.
The phrase often carries a mild reproach when directed at someone whose levity seems inappropriate to the situation.
Humorous remark or act
- quipBrief, clever remark
- wisecrackFlippant clever remark
- banterPlayful, teasing exchange
- joshingPlayful mocking
ribbing · gag · one-liner · zinger · punchline · clowning · witticism · wisecracks
Boisterous rough behavior
- roughhousingRowdy physical play
- goofing offIdling instead of working
- anticsAbsurd, attention-seeking behavior
- rompingPlaying with energetic movement
larking · frolicking · mischief · tomfoolery · shenanigans · monkeyshines · hijinks · skylarking
Affectionate verbal teasing
- raggingMocking someone persistently
- razzingLight mocking banter
- needlingPersistent mild taunting
- having someone onTricking someone jokingly
winding up · poking fun · mocking · taunting · chaffing · goading · twitting · gibing
jest
Humorous remark or act
joshing · ribbing · gag · one-liner · zinger · punchline · clowning · witticism · wisecracks · humor
horseplay
Boisterous rough behavior
- roughhousingRowdy physical play
- goofing offIdling instead of working
- anticsAbsurd, attention-seeking behavior
romping · larking · frolicking · mischief · tomfoolery · shenanigans · monkeyshines · hijinks · skylarking · prankish
ribbing
Affectionate verbal teasing
having someone on · winding up · poking fun · mocking · taunting · chaffing · goading · twitting · gibing · bantering
kid aroundmean business
Intend serious action
get serious · get down to business · speak plainly · be honest · tell the truth
kid aroundbuckle down
Apply oneself determinedly
knuckle down · get serious · get to work · sober up · focus