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Slapstick Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿคฃ
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slapstick

[หˆslรฆpหŒstษชk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

comedy performance

Slapstick refers to a type of comedy characterized by exaggerated physical violence and activities, such as hitting, tripping, and falling. It often involves humorous situations derived from miscommunication or misunderstanding.

Synonyms

farce, physical comedy, slapstick comedy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slapstick

This is best used to describe exaggerated physical actions meant to cause laughter, often clumsy or absurd. It is typically found in older films or cartoons.

  • The character slipped on a banana peel and fell into a pie, classic slapstick humor
physical comedy

This describes any type of humor derived from physical actions, including body movements and facial expressions. It is broader than slapstick and not necessarily extreme.

  • The actor's physical comedy, with his exaggerated expressions and stumbling, had the audience in stitches
farce

This term is used for comedy based on improbable situations, ridiculous events, and exaggerated characters. It often includes mistaken identities, deceptions, and fast-paced plot twists.

  • The play turned into a farce with characters constantly disguising themselves and trying to trick each other
slapstick comedy

Similar to 'slapstick', but this term emphasizes that itโ€™s a genre of comedy involving physical acts designed to induce laughter. It usually involves exaggerated, violent, or painful actions in a humorous context.

  • The movie is full of slapstick comedy, with characters getting hit by objects and walking into walls

Examples of usage

  • He entertained the audience with his slapstick humor.
  • The comedy duo's performance was full of slapstick moments.
  • The movie relied on slapstick comedy to generate laughs.
Context #2 | Noun

object

A slapstick is a type of prop used in comedy performances, consisting of two flat wooden slats that produce a loud slapping sound when struck together. It is often used in vaudeville and clown acts.

Synonyms

clapper, slapstick prop, slapstick tool.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slapstick

Used when referring to a genre of comedy that features exaggerated physical activity which exceeds the boundaries of common sense. Common in movies, theater, and TV shows.

  • Charlie Chaplin was a master of slapstick comedy
  • The movie is filled with slapstick humor, like people slipping on banana peels
clapper

Refers to the device used in cinematography to mark the beginning of a film scene or take. It's commonly known as the clapperboard and is used during the production process.

  • The director called for quiet on the set before the clapper signaled the start of the scene
  • The clapper helps synchronize the audio and video in post-production
slapstick prop

Specifically refers to a prop used in slapstick comedy to create visual gags and physical humor, like rubber chickens, cream pies, and oversized mallets.

  • The comedian used a rubber chicken as his slapstick prop for many of his jokes
  • The slapstick prop in the scene was a pie that ended up all over the actor's face
slapstick tool

This term is less common but may be used interchangeably with 'slapstick prop' to describe instruments or objects utilized in slapstick comedy to produce comedic effects.

  • The slapstick tool that created the most laughs was the inflatable hammer
  • They used various slapstick tools, like a fake brick, for their comedy routine

Examples of usage

  • The clown used a slapstick to create comedic sound effects.
  • The slapstick added a humorous element to the performance.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'slapstick' comes from a two-piece prop used in commedia dell'arte, which made a loud sound when actors hit each other.
  • Early forms of slapstick comedy date back to ancient Roman theater, where exaggerated physical actions were used for laughs.

Pop Culture

  • Famous examples of slapstick can be seen in the classic movies of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, who relied heavily on physical humor.
  • Cartoon characters like Tom and Jerry are iconic in slapstick, featuring exaggerated physical comedy in every episode.

Psychology

  • Researchers suggest that watching slapstick comedy can promote laughter, which releases endorphins and improves mood.
  • The element of surprise in slapstick often triggers spontaneous laughter, as unexpected events catch viewers off guard.

Literature

  • Slapstick techniques can also be found in Shakespeare's works, where physical comedy was used to entertain audiences.
  • In modern literature, slapstick elements appear in children's books, making stories fun and engaging through silly actions.

Theater and Film

  • Many silent films relied on slapstick since there were no spoken words; the funny gestures and actions conveyed the story.
  • Slapstick continues to influence movies today, with films like 'Dumb and Dumber' showcasing physical comedy to great effect.

Origin of 'slapstick'

The term 'slapstick' originated in the 19th century from the Italian 'batacchio' or 'slap stick,' which referred to a flexible wooden stick used by jesters and clowns to produce a loud slapping noise. Over time, 'slapstick' evolved to encompass both the prop used in comedy performances and the style of physical comedy associated with exaggerated actions and humor.

See also: slap, slapdash.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,493 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.