Past tense of clown; to act like a clown, perform foolish antics, or behave in a silly or exaggerated manner.
From clown (noun) used as a verb + -ed (past tense). The verb form is based on the occupational noun for a performer or entertainer, dating back to at least the 16th century in English.
Clowns were originally farm workers—the word came from low-status rural people, then became entertainers, and now 'clowned' means to act silly. It's a word that traveled from peasant to star.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.