romantic comedy

noun

plural romantic comedies

: a light, comic movie or other work whose plot focuses on the development of a romantic relationship

This brings us to romantic comedies. … They make money, spawn franchises, and are popular in books, movies, and on television. Sexual tension is fun to watch, and we like rooting for a will-they-won't-they couple.

—Elizabeth Logan

also : this style or genre of work

an actor with a talent for romantic comedy

called also rom-com

Examples of romantic comedy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sitting nearby with a group of friends was singer-songwriter Role Model, who recently shot his own acting debut in Lena Dunham’s upcoming romantic comedy, Good Sex. —Rebecca Ford, Vanity Fair, 12 Mar. 2026

In 2010, the project was announced as a live-action romantic comedy with Elizabeth Banks attached to star, and Adam Shankman, Jennifer Gibgot, and McG as producers. —Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 11 Mar. 2026

The earliest incarnation, announced in 2010, was a live-action romantic comedy with Elizabeth Banks attached to star and Adam Shankman, Jennifer Gibgot, and McG as producers. —Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 11 Mar. 2026

In 2010, the project was announced as a live-action romantic comedy with Elizabeth Banks attached to star. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 11 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for romantic comedy

• tragicomedy