What is a joke that plays on words with multiple meanings or similar sounds called?
AnswerA pun
A pun uses words that sound alike or have double meanings for a humorous effect.
Arts · Facts & stats
Joke facts & stats
7 fact-checked facts about jokes and humor, each with the reason behind it. 5 more are in today's round and join this page after it closes.
The basics
On which date is April Fools' Day, known for pranks and jokes?
AnswerApril 1
April Fools' Day falls on April 1, a day of practical jokes and hoaxes in many countries.
Going deeper
How many lines does a limerick have?
Answer5
A limerick has five lines, usually rhymed AABBA, with a bouncy rhythm; a sonnet has 14 lines.
In a comedy double act, what is the partner who plays it serious while the other gets laughs called?
AnswerThe straight man
The straight man sets up the jokes and reacts calmly, making the funny partner's lines land.
Entertainers kept at medieval royal courts to tell jokes and amuse the ruler were known as what?
AnswerJesters
Court jesters, often in colorful outfits, used jokes, songs and tricks to entertain nobles.
Expert level
Misusing a word that sounds like the right one is called a malapropism, after a character in which play?
AnswerThe Rivals
Mrs. Malaprop, from Richard Brinsley Sheridan's 1775 play The Rivals, constantly mixed up similar words.
The Philogelos, the oldest surviving joke book, was written in which language?
AnswerGreek
The Philogelos, meaning 'laughter lover', is a collection of jokes written in ancient Greek.
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