funny bone

noun

1. the part of the elbow where the ulnar nerve passes by the internal condyle of the humerus, which when struck causes a peculiar, tingling sensation in the arm and hand; crazy bone.

2. a sense of humor.

funny bone

noun

1. Also called (US): crazy bone. the area near the elbow where the ulnar nerve is close to the surface of the skin: when it is struck, a sharp tingling sensation is experienced along the forearm and hand

Word History and Origins

Origin of funny bone¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Idioms and Phrases

A point on the elbow where the ulnar nerve runs close to the surface and produces a sharp tingling sensation when knocked against the bone. For example, Ouch! I just banged my funny bone . The expression is a pun on humerus (pronounced the same as humorous ), the Latin name for the long bone of the arm. [Early 1800s]

A sense of humor, as in That comedian really tickles my funny bone . This expression is derived from def. 1.

Example Sentences

“The real strength is this combination of virtual reality, some live action and animation. When it’s done well, it stretches the imagination and tickles the funny bone.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

You’d be forgiven for not really associating the “White Collar” and “Fellow Travelers” actor with having a funny bone, though.

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As soon as he walks on, you laugh because he's got funny bones.

Read more on BBC

Tug at the heartstrings or tickle the funny bone; have fun with wordplay or keep it straightforward.

Read more on Seattle Times

Bryce Harper gave the Phillies a brief scare when he hurt his funny bone in a collision at first base in Game 4.

Read more on Seattle Times