punchline
Say it: PUNCH-lyn /ˈpʌn(t)ʃlaɪn/ · noun
What “punchline” means
The ending of a joke that makes it funny.
More precisely: The final part of a joke or story that delivers the humour or surprise.
Example: “He always laughs before reaching the punchline, which somehow makes it funnier.”
When to use it
Use it when discussing how a joke works, especially the final words that create the laugh or surprise.
Similar words
payoff, kicker, climax
Quick check
Your sister tells a long joke, but everyone laughs only at the final sentence. What is that sentence?
the punchline or the setup?
Show the answer
the punchline
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