# slapstick

/ˈsɫæpˌstɪk/ (US) · /slˈæpstɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/slapstick
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a type of comedy that uses physical humor, like falling over or hitting things, to make people laugh. It is usually very silly and does not rely on words.

For teachers: a style of physical comedy characterized by exaggerated, often violent, physical action and visual gags. Frequently associated with silent film and early television, it relies on the audience's visual interpretation rather than dialogue.

## Examples

- The movie is full of slapstick and funny accidents.
- While the script was weak, the film relied on classic slapstick to keep the audience entertained.
- Modern comedies often blend sophisticated wordplay with occasional bursts of slapstick to appeal to a broad demographic, though purists argue that physical humor alone lacks the nuance of character-driven satire.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.