Funnyman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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funnyman

[ˈfʌniˌmæn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

entertainment

A person who is known for their humor and ability to make others laugh, often through jokes, stories, or performances. Funnyman is typically used to refer to male comedians.

Synonyms

comedian, jester, joker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
funnyman	This term is used to describe a person, often a professional, known for making others laugh. It can apply to someone working in entertainment, such as movies or stand-up comedy. The funnyman took the stage, and the crowd erupted in laughter. He's the funnyman behind the popular TV sitcom.
comedian	This is a professional term for someone who performs comedy routines, often in front of live audiences, on television, or in films. It carries a formal tone. The comedian's latest show was a hit, selling out every night. Many comedians draw from their personal experiences to create their routines.
jester	Historically, a jester was a professional fool or entertainer at royal courts in medieval times. Today, it is sometimes used metaphorically to describe someone who acts silly or makes jokes, often in a playful or theatrical manner. The jester entertained the court with his witty remarks and acrobatics. At the party, John played the jester, keeping everyone amused with his antics.
joker	This term refers to someone who likes to tell jokes or make humorous remarks. It can have a slightly negative connotation if the person is seen as not taking things seriously. He's such a joker; you can never tell when he's being serious. The joker in the group always has a quick comeback.

Examples of usage

He is a talented funnyman who always leaves the audience in stitches.
The funnyman had the whole room roaring with laughter.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A man who is playful and mischievous, often pulling pranks or making witty remarks to entertain those around him.

Synonyms

joker, prankster, trickster.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
funnyman	Use this term to refer to a person who is consistently funny and perhaps works in comedy professionally as a comedian. John is the funnyman of the group; he always has everyone laughing. The funnyman performed a hilarious stand-up routine at the club last night.
joker	Refers to someone who tells jokes or tries to be funny, usually in everyday situations. This term can have a negative connotation if the person's jokes are considered annoying or inappropriate. Stop being such a joker and take this seriously! He's a real joker and loves making us laugh during lunch breaks.
trickster	Describes someone who is cunning and uses deceit or tricks to achieve their goals. The term is often used in myths and stories and may carry a negative connotation. The trickster in the fairy tale always finds a way to outsmart the others. Be careful around him; he's a bit of a trickster and might try to deceive you.
prankster	Best describes someone who enjoys playing tricks or practical jokes on others, often causing surprise or humor. Amy is known as the office prankster; you never know what she's going to do next. The prankster got everyone with his fake spider on April Fool's Day.

Examples of usage

He's such a funnyman, always making everyone laugh with his silly antics.
Don't take him too seriously, he's just being a funnyman.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

Funnymen prominently appear in TV shows, with stand-up comedy specials featuring many famous figures like Robin Williams or Kevin Hart.
The role of the funnyman is often highlighted in movies, where a comedic character provides relief from drama, such as in 'Ghostbusters'.
In animation, funnymen can be represented by iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, who use humor to navigate challenges.

Psychology

Studies show that humor can increase happiness and reduce stress, making the role of a funnyman crucial for emotional well-being.
People often remember funnymen more positively in social circles due to their ability to bond through laughter.
The ability to make others laugh is linked to high emotional intelligence, showcasing a funnyman's skill in social contexts.

History

Historically, court jesters were the original funnymen, using humor to offer counsel and entertain royalty while speaking truths others could not.
The role of humor in ancient cultures was significant, serving as a means to critique social norms and politics through satire.
Funnymen have adapted through history, with notable figures like Charlie Chaplin, who combined physical comedy with social commentary in the silent film era.

Literature

Literature often features funnymen as side characters that add levity to serious themes, like Sancho Panza in 'Don Quixote'.
In Shakespeare's plays, characters like Feste in 'Twelfth Night' serve as funnymen, using wit to challenge other characters’ views.
Contemporary novels sometimes explore the complexities of a funnyman’s life, illustrating the contrast between their comedic exterior and personal struggles.

Origin of 'funnyman'

Main points about word origin

The word 'funnyman' combines 'funny', originating from the Middle English word 'funnie', meaning 'amusing'.
The term 'funnyman' began to be popularized in the 20th century, as entertainment evolved to include stand-up comedy.
It reflects a shift in language, where playfulness began to be identified specifically with male comics.

The term 'funnyman' originated in the early 20th century as a colloquial expression to describe a person who possesses a humorous and entertaining personality. It gained popularity in the entertainment industry to refer to male comedians who specialize in making people laugh through various means such as stand-up comedy, acting, or writing. Over time, 'funnyman' has become a common term used to describe individuals with a talent for comedy and wit.