1. Joking: This is the most common meaning. When someone says they're "kidding," they mean they are not serious and are trying to be funny.
* "I'm kidding, I don't really want to eat your entire cake!"
2. Fooling around: This meaning suggests a playful or lighthearted activity, often done for entertainment.
* "We were just kidding around and didn't mean to break the vase."
3. Treating someone like a child: This usage is less common and often has a negative connotation. It implies treating someone as naive or incapable.
* "Stop kidding around and take this seriously!"
4. To deceive or trick: This meaning is rarer but can occur in some situations. It suggests a playful or harmless deception.
* "He was kidding us about the surprise party."
To understand the meaning of "kidding," it's essential to consider the context of the conversation and the tone of the speaker.