kid around: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘kid around’ mean?
*kid around*
(idiomatic) To engage in playful or lighthearted joking or teasing; to not be serious.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "kidding aside" means to stop joking or fooling around and to start being serious or sincere.
The idiom "kiddie table" refers to a separate, usually less prestigious, area or group designated for children, typically during a formal meal or event. It signifies a lower level of importance or inclusion, implying that the individuals in this group are not considered to be on the same level as the adults or main group.
The idiom "kick up one's heels" means to relax, have fun, or engage in lively enjoyment and uninhibited behavior.
The idiom "kick it" means to relax, have fun, or spend time casually with friends or acquaintances. It often implies a laid-back and informal atmosphere, where one can enjoy themselves without any specific agenda or responsibilities.
The idiomatic phrase "in jest" means to say or do something as a joke or in a lighthearted manner, not intended to be taken seriously.
The idiom "horse around" means to engage in playful, often rowdy or foolish behavior. It is used to describe someone who is not taking a situation seriously or wasting time by being silly or disruptive.
The idiom "have a laugh" means to find something amusing or entertaining and to enjoy a good laugh or joke.
The idiom "have a ball" means to have a great time or enjoy oneself immensely.
The idiom "hang out" means to spend time or relax informally with friends or in a social setting without any particular purpose or activity. It conveys a casual and laid-back atmosphere and is often used to describe spending time together without any specific plans or agenda.
The idiom "handle with kid gloves" means to treat someone or something delicately or carefully, usually because they are sensitive or fragile. It implies the need for caution and gentleness in one's actions or words towards the person or object being handled.
Unveiling lightheartedness
Kid around is an idiom that indicates playful or light-hearted behavior. It suggests engaging in amusement or harmless joking in a casual or relaxed context. The idiom has a long-standing history in the English language, possibly derived from the Dutch word 'kiten,' meaning 'to joke or tease,' or from the Scots word 'kyte,' meaning 'belly.'
One interpretation of 'kid around' involves engaging in playful banter or teasing with others. By kidding around, individuals aim to entertain, create a jovial atmosphere, or build social bonds. This lighthearted behavior is often observed among friends, family members, or colleagues.
Additionally, 'kid around' can also refer to engaging in practical jokes or harmless pranks. As long as the pranks remain harmless and non-malicious, this form of kidding around can serve as a means of entertainment and amusement among individuals.
The idiom 'kid around' can also describe someone who is not being serious or genuine in their actions or statements. By using this idiom, individuals express that the person in question is not being sincere and may be joking or pretending.
In some contexts, 'kid around' can imply a sense of irresponsibility or not taking things seriously. It suggests that individuals are treating a situation casually or without the necessary gravity.
'Kid around' can also be used as a reminder to not take oneself too seriously. It encourages individuals to engage in self-deprecating humor or light-heartedness to alleviate tension or stress.
The idiom 'kid around' primarily signifies engaging in playful behavior, banter, harmless joking, or pranks. Through its various interpretations and contexts, the idiom captivates the essence of light-heartedness, amusement, and not taking oneself too seriously.
Related idiom: 'horse around'
'Horse around' is another idiom that shares similarities with 'kid around.' It refers to engaging in playful or rowdy behavior, often involving physical activity or roughhousing. This idiom suggests an energetic and high-spirited approach to having fun. 'Horse around' is commonly used among children and can also be observed in more informal or relaxed social settings.
Related idiom: 'fool around'
'Fool around' is an idiom that aligns with 'kid around' in terms of playful behavior. It refers to engaging in lighthearted or frivolous activities without a serious purpose. This idiom implies a sense of whimsy, spontaneity, and carefree attitude. 'Fool around' can be used to describe engaging in activities just for the sake of enjoyment, without any specific goal or objective in mind.
Related idiom: 'child's play'
'Child's play' is an idiom that shares a similar essence to 'kid around.' It refers to something that is simple, easy, or effortless to accomplish. This idiom often compares the task or activity to something that children find easy and enjoyable. 'Child's play' highlights the idea that the task at hand requires minimal effort or skill, much like engaging in playful behavior as a child.
Related idiom: 'dog around'
'Dog around' is an idiom that parallels 'kid around' in terms of engaging in playful or carefree behavior. It suggests a sense of leisurely wandering or exploring without any particular aim or purpose. 'Dog around' can also imply engaging in activities without a serious commitment or responsibility. This idiom signifies a relaxed and carefree attitude towards one's actions.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *kid around* can be used in a sentence:
- I like to kid around with my friends and make jokes.
- Don't take it seriously, he's just kidding around with you.
- She was just kidding around when she said she would eat the entire pizza by herself.
More "Slang" idioms
