Comedy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to a genre of entertainment that aims to make people laugh, typically in movies, TV shows, or plays.

• We went to see a new comedy film last night.
• She has a good sense of comedy timing.

Refers to the quality of being amusing or entertaining. It can be used more broadly to describe a person's ability to find things amusing.

• Her sense of humor is one of her best traits.
• I'm a fan of dry humor.

Used to describe something or someone that makes you laugh.

• That's a funny joke you told.
• He's a really funny guy.

Describes the physical act of laughing. It is used to denote the sound or action of someone laughing.

• Her laughter was contagious.
• The room was filled with laughter after his joke.

Best applied to genre of entertainment that aims to make people laugh, such as films, plays, or books.

• The movie was a great comedy that had everyone in stitches.
• He loves watching stand-up comedy.

General concept of anything that provokes laughter or provides amusement, also implies a sense of wit or ability to understand and enjoy jokes.

• She has a great sense of humor.
• They enjoyed the comedian's sharp humor.

Describes the quality of being funny, mostly when evaluating or describing humor.

• The funniness of his jokes won him many fans.
• She appreciated the funniness of his stories.

Use when referring to the experience of finding something entertaining or enjoyable.

• The children found great amusement in the magician's tricks.
• She watched the puppet show with amusement.