punch line

noun

: the sentence, statement, or phrase (as in a joke) that makes the point

Examples of punch line in a Sentence

She didn't understand the punch line.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One of the most fun parts of writing comedy is coming up with alt after alt after alt for a joke, pulling ever-increasingly stupid punch lines out of one’s ass. — Bethy Squires, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026 Bad imitations eventually reduced molecular gastronomy to a punch line about foam, fog, and something unfortunately known as meat glue. — John Vorwald, Robb Report, 11 Oct. 2026 The caption goes further The ad’s punch line ties directly to the film’s themes. — Andrew McGowan, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2026 When will Smith learn the lesson to talk like a human and focus less on a punch line when discussing serious subjects? — Troy Renck, Denver Post, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for punch line

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of punch line was in 1916

Rhymes for punch line

See All Rhymes for punch line

Browse Nearby Words

punchless
punch line
punch list
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Punch line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punch%20line. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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