punch line

American  

noun

punch lines plural

1. the climactic phrase or sentence in a joke, speech, advertisement, or humorous story that produces the desired effect.

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punch line British  

noun

1. the culminating part of a joke, funny story, etc, that gives it its humorous or dramatic point

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• punch lines
  plural

Etymology

Origin of punch line

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25

Example Sentences

Bill Plaschke writes that in the 23 years since Arte Moreno bought the World Series championship team, the Angels have become a punch line.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

She comes up with a superior punch line, one worth delivering to an audience.

From Salon • May 29, 2026

Her response to questions about the DOJ’s failure to prosecute Epstein’s accomplices with the statement “the Dow is over $50,000 right now” became an immediate punch line.

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026

Chinese culture may be of genuine interest to many users, but online, it’s destined to become an exotic punch line.

From Slate • Mar. 13, 2026

Tess studied Genie’s face, waiting for the punch line that, after a moment, she realized wasn’t coming.

From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds