Definition

Noun: An account of a humorous or amusing incident, typically structured to build toward and conclude with a punch line—a final sentence or phrase that delivers the comedic effect.

Usage

This noun refers to a short, spoken or written narrative whose primary purpose is to entertain and provoke laughter. It is a specific type of anecdote crafted for comedic effect.

Examples

• She told a funny story about her first day at work that had everyone laughing.
• He is great at remembering and retelling a good funny story.
• The comedian's act was essentially a series of connected funny stories.

Advanced Usage

• As a narrative device: A funny story often relies on timing, exaggeration, and relatable situations to create humor.
• In social contexts: Sharing a funny story is a common way to break the ice, entertain a group, or illustrate a point in a lighthearted manner.

Variants and Related Words

• Joke (n): A very short funny story or a question with a pun or witty answer, designed specifically to cause laughter.
• Anecdote (n): A short, amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person. Not all anecdotes are funny, but a funny story is a type of anecdote.
• Gag (n): A joke or a specifically prepared piece of humor, often used in performance contexts like stand-up comedy or films.

Synonyms

• Joke
• Humorous anecdote
• Comic tale

Related Phrases

• To crack a joke: To tell a joke.
• To have a punch line: To conclude with the funny part of the story. (e.g., "The story was long, but it had a great punch line.")

Noun

1. an account of an amusing incident (usually with a punch line)
   • she told a funny story
   • she made a funny