To josh means to tease someone in a playful, good-natured way. When friends josh each other, they're making jokes or poking fun, but everyone knows it's friendly and no one's feelings are meant to get hurt. You might josh your brother about his messy hair or josh your friend about missing an easy shot in basketball.

The key difference between joshing and mean teasing is the spirit behind it. When you josh someone, you're laughing with them, not at them. Real joshing comes with a smile and often makes everyone laugh, including the person being joshed. After a friend joshes you about tripping over your shoelaces, you might josh them right back about the time they walked into a glass door.

People often say “I'm just joshing” or “Don't worry, I'm only joshing” to make clear they're being playful, not cruel. Good-natured joshing can actually strengthen friendships because it shows you're comfortable enough with each other to laugh together.