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.
In the prelapsarian days of 2015, when our would-be dictator was mostly a punch line, hipsters in Williamsburg started wearing MAGA hats as a joke. — Mark Guiducci, Vanity Fair, 18 Aug. 2026 Evian and fat-free frozen yogurt were frequent punch lines; crystals were inherently funny (still are). — John Vorwald, Robb Report, 16 Aug. 2026 The election demanded by Reform UK's leader, who faces corruption accusations, has turned into a punch line after major parties dismissed it as a stunt and declined to field candidates. — Steve Hendrix, Washington Post, 13 Aug. 2026 For one, the original was filmed in front of a live studio audience, so when the cast delivered their punch lines, the audience reacted in real time. — Stephanie Sengwe, PEOPLE, 11 Aug. 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 20 Aug. 2026.

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