Comedy Meaning and Definition
Comedy
Pronunciation
/ˈkɒmədi/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A genre of comedy characterized by witty dialogue, satire, and absurdity, often presented through plays, films, or television shows.
Examples
- The comedy troupe’s improv show was a huge hit.
- The film’s clever script made it a comedy classic.
- The stand-up comedian’s sarcastic jokes had the audience in stitches.
- The TV show’s goofy characters made it a beloved comedy.
- Comedy is a great way to criticize societal norms.
- The playwright’s witty dialogue made the comedy a standout.
Synonyms
- Humor
- Punchline
Antonyms
- Tragedy
- Farce
Etymology
The word “comedy” comes from the Greek word κωμῃδία (komēdia), which was used to describe a type of play that was played by improvising actors.
Usage Notes
Comedy can be used to describe a range of genres, from slapstick humor to satire. It’s often used to describe plays, films, and television shows, but it can also describe a type of writing or spoken word.
Cultural References
Comedy has a long history in Western culture, with ancient Greeks and Romans performing comedies. Shakespeare’s plays, such as “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, are also renowned for their comedic elements.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A “comedy of errors” is a phrase used to describe a situation that is filled with mistakes or mishaps. A “comedy of manners” refers to a type of play that satirizes social conventions.
Related Words or Phrases
Funny, Humor, Satire, Joke, Wit
Collocations
Comedy show, Comedy club, Comedy routine, Comedy of errors
Frequency of Use
Comedy is a commonly used word in modern language, particularly in discussions of film, television, and theater.
Common Misspellings
Comeddy, Comedie, Comdiy