punch line

noun

: the sentence, statement, or phrase (as in a joke) that makes the point

Examples of punch line in a Sentence

She didn't understand the punch line.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The lack of effort has been so widespread, it’s turned into a collective punch line among my group of friends. Ruhama Wolle, Glamour, 22 Jan. 2025 The story follows the logic of a joke or a comedy sketch: the development consists in finding new ways for the doctors to move their uneasy patient one step closer to the punch line. Christopher Tayler, Harper's Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025 Her fame, when contrasted with some of her forgettable films—The Butcher’s Wife, The Scarlet Letter—turned her into an easy punch line. Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 8 Jan. 2025 In the latter, the best moment of interplay was when Colbert threw the perfect punch line on Kendrick’s story by gently reminding her that magic mushrooms are a legal gray area. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for punch line 

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of punch line was in 1916

Dictionary Entries Near punch line

Cite this Entry

“Punch line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punch%20line. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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