punch line

American  

noun

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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Etymology

Origin of punch line

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25

Example Sentences

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

Still, the highs and lows of marriage aren’t merely a punch line in “Is This Thing On?” — and that’s good.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 18, 2025

Now we’re in a comedy structure where it’s act out and mix up a set up, a punch line, etc.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 7, 2025

Throughout my lunch with Tony P., I kept looking for the joke, the punch line.

From Slate • Dec. 17, 2024

The passive might be more appropriate in cases like these: • When there’s a punch line.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner