Definition

1. Noun:
   • A prop in slapstick comedy: A "custard pie" is a theatrical prop designed to resemble an open pie filled with custard (which can be real or artificial). Its primary use is to be thrown at someone's face for comedic effect in slapstick performances.

Usage

• Noun:
  • The classic silent film ended with an elaborate custard pie fight.
  • The comedian's signature move was hitting his partner with a custard pie.

Advanced Usage

• "custard-pie comedy": A style or genre of humor characterized by such slapstick, physical gags.
  • The film festival featured a night dedicated to classic custard-pie comedy.

Variants and Related Words

• Slapstick (n/adj): A style of humor involving exaggerated physical activity and violence, often involving props like custard pies.
  • The show relied on old-fashioned slapstick to get laughs.

Synonyms

• Comedy prop: A general term for an object used to create a humorous effect in a performance.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• "pie in the face": A phrase describing the act of hitting someone with a pie (often a custard pie) as a prank or comedic stunt. This is closely associated with the use of a custard pie.
  • The politician's speech was interrupted by an activist giving him a pie in the face.

Noun

1. a prop consisting of an open pie filled with real or artificial custard; thrown in slapstick comedies