shtick

American  

[shtik] / ʃtɪk /

Also schtick, or shtik

noun

Slang.

1. (especially in comic acting) a routine or piece of business inserted to gain a laugh or draw attention to oneself.

2. one's special interest, talent, etc.

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shtick British  

/ ʃtɪk /

noun

1. slang a comedian's routine; act; piece

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Etymology

Origin of shtick

First recorded in 1955–60; from Yiddish shtik “pranks, whims,” literally, “piece,” from Middle High German stücke, Old High German stucki ( German Stück ); stucco

Example Sentences

Musk’s time at the agency was tumultuous, as the political novice quickly realized that insiders were not impressed by his chainsaw-wielding shtick.

From Salon

While no financial records are publicly available for Whatever and Atlas did not respond to Salon’s requests for an interview, he’s clearly making a mint from this repetitious shtick.

From Salon

“How does Mike find himself within his love of Neil? It took me a second to find him and lose my shtick, because I’m a performer too.”

From Los Angeles Times

For once, I will say: Don’t drop the strongman shtick.

From The Wall Street Journal

But the sharpest satire of all may be Lola herself who — spoiler! — falls for her own shtick in the end.

From Los Angeles Times