Gags: meaning, definitions and examples
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gags
[ ษกรฆษกz ]
humor, jokes
Gags are short, humorous anecdotes or jokes designed to produce laughter. They are often used in various forms of entertainment, such as films and stand-up comedy, to create comedic moments. Gags can also refer to physical comedy, where comedic effects rely on sight gags rather than spoken jokes.
Synonyms
foolery, humor, joke, prank, quip
Examples of usage
- The comedian's set was filled with clever gags.
- She pulled a gag on her friend for April Fools' Day.
- The movie was packed with slapstick gags that had the audience laughing.
- His favorite gags are the ones that involve misunderstandings.
to hinder, joke
To gag can mean to prevent someone from speaking or to restrain someone by placing something in their mouth. In a more humorous sense, it can also refer to joking around or teasing someone. The term is also used in contexts involving choke or prohibition of speech.
Synonyms
choke, muffle, quiet, restrain
Examples of usage
- He tried to gag the noise from the loud crowd.
- They gagged him as a prank during the skit.
- Don't gag on your food, chew carefully!
- I would never gag a good story.
Etymology
The word 'gag' originates from the Middle English word 'gagge', which meant 'to choke or strangle'. This term, in turn, comes from the Old English word 'gaggan', meaning 'to seize or grab'. Over time, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the meaning of 'gag' shifted to include a lighter, more humorous connotation, as it began to refer to funny stories or jokes. By the mid-20th century, the term had become widely recognized in comedic contexts, referring to both visual and verbal jokes in various forms of humor. The evolution of 'gag' showcases the blending of linguistics, cultural practice, and entertainment, reflecting society's relationship with humor.