“Jape” is an English word that doesn’t have a clear etymology from a foreign or ancient language. Chaucer used it in the 14th century in the senses of both trickery and mockery, and the meaning has remained consistent centuries later. “Jape,” as a verb, means “to make a joke,” but you can also use it as a noun. On April Fools’ Day, you might pull a jape, or play a practical joke, on your family. May we suggest filling the bathroom with balloons overnight?