comic relief

American  

noun

1. an amusing scene, incident, or speech introduced into serious or tragic elements, as in a play, in order to provide temporary relief from tension, or to intensify the dramatic action.

2. relief from tension caused by the introduction or occurrence of a comic element, as by an amusing human foible.

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Etymology

Origin of comic relief

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

comic relief

The final “Phantasm” film featured “an energetic performance by Bannister, who through the five films has gone from comic relief to a goofy-but-gallant Bruce Campbell-type hero,” critic Noel Murray wrote for The Times in 2016.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 11, 2026

Bringing some necessary comic relief is the fourth character, a hearty American woman, Cheryl-Ann, played with funny, galumphing exuberance by Donna Lynne Champlin.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 25, 2026

Finn’s hyperactive sense of smell and bottomless appetite provide lighthearted comic relief, while the descriptions of Chase running are some of the book’s loveliest passages.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 20, 2026

For mild comic relief, they also pal around with a robot named H.E.R.B.I.E., voiced by Matthew Wood.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 23, 2025

“Enchanted assistant, sidekick, comic relief, et cetera, et cetera,” said Boo.

From "Aru Shah and the End of Time" by Roshani Chokshi