slapstick

noun

slap·​stick ˈslap-ˌstik 

1

: a device made of two flat pieces of wood fastened at one end so as to make a loud noise when used by an actor to strike a person

2

: comedy stressing farce and horseplay

also : activity resembling slapstick

slapstick adjective

slapsticky

ˈslap-ˌsti-kē 

adjective

Did you know?

The idea that knocking people about made for good comedy dates as far back as the Greco-Roman theater, where clowns rambunctiously "attacked" one another onstage. The object from which the word slapstick derives, however, was invented in Italy in the 16th century. Renaissance comedy typically featured stock characters placed in ridiculous situations, and one such ubiquitous character was Harlequin, whose brilliant costuming made him easily recognizable. Harlequin was given to wielding a paddle which was designed to make a terrible noise when he hit someone, usually to the delight of the audience. This paddle was eventually known in English as a "slapstick," and it became a symbol of that type of highly physical comedy. The word slapstick then came to refer to the comedy itself.

Synonyms

• comedy
• farce
• humor

Examples of slapstick in a Sentence

an actor whose roles range from slapstick to serious drama

a lowbrow comedy that relies heavily on slapstick for its laughs

Recent Examples on the Web

That said, there is quite a bit lurking just under the slapstick surface. —Christian Lewis, Variety, 12 July 2024

The movie has a lot of characters and subplots to keep straight — four aliens, seven kids, three parents, and a grandmother — but the little ones will enjoy the slapstick mind-control device that ends up in the hands of a pair of mischievous twins. —Danny Horn, EW.com, 10 July 2024

Downs and Meg Stalter are the best slapstick duo on the side as Deb's managers, taking unhealthy relationships and cluelessness to the next level. —Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, 1 May 2024

The films blend classic, relatable humor that spans generations, paired with the slapstick hijinks of the loveable Minions and just a lot of heart all mixed with a catchy soundtrack. —Kristina Behr, Parents, 1 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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Kids Definition

slapstick

noun

slap·​stick ˈslap-ˌstik 

: comedy stressing horseplay

slapstick adjective