shtick

American  

[shtik] / ʃtɪk /

Also schtick, or shtik

noun

Slang.

1. (especially in comic acting) a routine or piece of business inserted to gain a laugh or draw attention to oneself.

2. one's special interest, talent, etc.

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shtick British  

/ ʃtɪk /

noun

1. slang a comedian's routine; act; piece

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Etymology

Origin of shtick

First recorded in 1955–60; from Yiddish shtik “pranks, whims,” literally, “piece,” from Middle High German stücke, Old High German stucki ( German Stück ); stucco

Example Sentences

Choi isn’t averse to shtick, if the result is an explosion of audience laughter.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

But that didn’t stop Team USA from trying out a stand-up-and-salute shtick as a collection of America’s finest players grimaced their way through the recent World Baseball Classic.

From Salon • Mar. 18, 2026

“How does Mike find himself within his love of Neil? It took me a second to find him and lose my shtick, because I’m a performer too.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 19, 2025

For once, I will say: Don’t drop the strongman shtick.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

She's a crack in the web av the afther crank shaft ye could shtick a knife blade into.

From Cappy Ricks Or, the Subjugation of Matt Peasley by Kyne, Peter B. (Peter Bernard)