punch line

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They are often dismissed as a punch line, but Roxane Gay explains why women’s book clubs are the backbone of a passionate literary culture.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Despite the anguish — often told as a punch line — the winner of the competition offered a glimmer of hope to the nearly 90 attendees live-voting throughout the show via an app.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

The team that spent its first four decades of existence as a punch line and a purgatory has now had 14 consecutive winning seasons with a succession of basketball greats wearing its uniform.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 13, 2026

I’m a Jersey-born Muslim, same as Youssef, and I was wedged in Row N next to an auntie who looked primed to eye-roll any haram punch line.

From Slate • Jun. 30, 2025

She waited for the punch line, her shoes growing soggy.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen