Creepy clowns are a cultural phenomenon often associated with fear and unease. While clowns are traditionally entertainers, their exaggerated features and unpredictable behavior can evoke discomfort in some people. This fear is sometimes referred to as coulrophobia, which is the irrational fear of clowns. The portrayal of creepy clowns has been popularized in various media, including movies like It, based on the novel by Stephen King. These depictions often emphasize sinister traits, such as menacing smiles and dark humor, contributing to the unsettling image of clowns in popular culture.