punch line — The final part of a joke or story that provides the humor or the surprising conclusion
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: The final part of a joke or story that provides the humor or the surprising conclusion
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpʌntʃ laɪn/
Example Sentences
- I forgot the punch line halfway through telling the joke, so everyone just stared at me awkwardly.
- A good punch line should surprise the audience while still making logical sense.
- My dad's jokes never have a punch line—he just laughs at nothing.
punch line
NOUN[/ˈpʌntʃ laɪn/]
The final part of a joke or story that provides the humor or the surprising conclusion
The comedian's punch line made the whole audience burst into laughter.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This expression originated from boxing terminology in late 19th-century American comedy. Just as a boxer delivers a powerful final punch to decide a match, the final line of a joke or story delivers a decisive impact that provokes laughter. The metaphorical application to comedy became established as a standard theatrical term in American English.
Breakdown
punch (a forceful blow) + line (a sentence or statement) = the final sentence of a joke or story that delivers the comedic impact or revelation.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“I forgot the punch line halfway through telling the joke, so everyone just stared at me awkwardly.”
“A good punch line should surprise the audience while still making logical sense.”
“My dad's jokes never have a punch line—he just laughs at nothing.”
“Understanding cultural context is essential to getting the punch line of foreign jokes.”
📚Related Words
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