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 Some play major roles, while others show up for a punch line or two then waltz off into the Space Age distance. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 3 May 2024 Tangent Biden has used his own age as a punch line in public appearances in recent months. Sara Dorn, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for punch line 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'punch line.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near punch line

Cite this Entry

“Punch line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punch%20line. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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