# punch line

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈpʌntʃˌlaɪn/

## Definitions
1. The final part of a joke; the word, sentence, or exchange of sentences that is intended to be funny and provokes laughter from the listeners.
2. The butt of a joke; laughing stock.
3. A final, concluding statement that an explanation has been leading up to; a conclusion.

## Etymology
1910s, probably American. It was probably meant to be likened to a quick, sharp punch.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/punch-line