Pronunciation: [pɹˈaŋks] (IPA) 
The word "pranks" is spelled with the letter 'p', followed by the letters 'r', 'a', 'n', 'k', and 's'. It is pronounced /præŋks/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The 'p' is pronounced as an unvoiced bilabial stop, while the 'r' is pronounced as an alveolar approximant. The 'a' is pronounced as a short vowel sound, and the 'n' and 'k' are both pronounced as voiced velar stops. The final 's' is pronounced as an unvoiced alveolar fricative.
Pranks, also referred to as practical jokes, are mischievous acts or playful tricks performed with the intention to amuse or provoke laughter, often at the expense of others. These humorous activities are usually light-hearted and non-harmful in nature, intended to surprise individuals and catch them off guard.
Pranks often involve the element of surprise, with practical jokers engaging in clever, witty, or cunning schemes aimed at deceiving or tricking unsuspecting victims. They may entail creating fake situations, manipulating objects, or generating humorous false information to mislead the target. Pranks can occur in various settings, including personal relationships, workplaces, schools, or even public spaces, adding an element of surprise, entertainment, and amusement to people’s lives.
While pranks are typically meant to provide amusement and laughter, it is crucial to consider ethical boundaries and respect the safety, privacy, and emotional well-being of others. Excessive or malicious pranks that cause harm, distress, or humiliation, also known as "mean-spirited pranks," cross ethical and moral lines and should be avoided.
Pranks have been an integral part of human culture for centuries, dating back to ancient times when practical jokes were employed for entertainment purposes. In contemporary society, pranks continue to be prevalent, especially in the form of online videos, television shows, and social media challenges, where people showcase their ingenuity, creativity, and sense of humor, encouraging laughter and fostering a sense of camaraderie.
The word "pranks" originated from the Middle English term "prank", which meant "to adorn" or "display ostentatiously". It can be traced back to the Old Norse word "prakkr", meaning "a swarthy person" or "a cunning fellow". Over time, the meaning of "prank" evolved to include playful or mischievous tricks or practical jokes.
