black humor

American  

noun

1. a form of humor that regards human suffering as absurd rather than pitiable, or that considers human existence as ironic and pointless but somehow comic.

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Usage

What does black humor mean? Black humor is a kind of comedy that jokes about serious or depressing topics, such as hopelessness, suffering, or death. The black in black humor refers to the dark or depressing subject matter that is central to such comedy. Similar terms are black comedy, dark humor, and gallows humor. Sometimes black comedy is used as a way to point out or reflect on the absurdity of life—or, more specifically, of the dark aspects of life, like death and war. But like other comedy, sometimes it’s just used to get a laugh. Either way, it’s very popular in modern media.

Etymology

Origin of black humor

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Through their perspectives, black humor flows freely, as the motivations and experiences that brought this motley crew together rise to the surface.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2025

The film is chock full of black humor set against steampunk visual design.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 10, 2024

Gilman’s script offers black humor, suspense and a crushing ending.

From New York Times • Dec. 3, 2023

Her comic chemistry with Black-D'Elia keeps the show flowing with black humor.

From Salon • Jan. 21, 2022

He reminded Tyrion of Bronn, though Bronn had a sellsword’s black humor and Griff had no humor at all.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin