jest

(noun) a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter. Synonyms: joke, gag, laugh, jape. Examples: "He told a very funny joke." "He knows a million gags." "Thanks for the laugh." "He laughed unpleasantly at his own jest." "Even a schoolboy's jape is supposed to have some ascertainable point."

(noun) activity characterized by good humor. Synonyms: joke, jocularity.

(verb) tell a joke; speak humorously. Synonyms: joke. Examples: "He often jokes even when he appears serious."

(verb) act in a funny or teasing way. Synonyms: joke.