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.

Her response to questions about the DOJ’s failure to prosecute Epstein’s accomplices with the statement “the Dow is over $50,000 right now” became an immediate punch line.

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026

They had to train with a gun, for example, and, more important, let go of the need for punch line.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 25, 2025

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

I had to unlearn the muscle memory of taking people to a poignant place and then relieving that tension with a punch line.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 25, 2025

Emily waited a beat, expecting a punch line or her brother to start laughing and take his words back.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman