gagman
Writes comedians' material
A gagman is a writer or performer who specializes in gags—jokes, comic bits, or humorous situations.
The term emerged from early Hollywood, where gagmen contributed jokes to silent films and later to comedies and variety shows.
The studio kept several gagmen on staff to punch up scripts.
The word sounds dated now, largely replaced by comedy writer.
Funny performer or publication
- funnymanProfessional humorist
- jokerCutup or wild card
- jesterRoyal household comedian
- clownComedic performer in makeup
humorist · wit · buffoon · quipster · stand-up · raconteur · banterer · mimic
Humorous statement seeking laughter
- punchlineHumor's final delivery
- quipBrief, clever remark
- jestHumorous remark or act
- banterPlayful, teasing exchange
wisecrack · zinger · bit · setup · callback · wordplay · slapstick · physical comedy
comic
Funny performer or publication
clown · humorist · wit · buffoon · quipster · stand-up · raconteur · banterer · mimic · impersonator
joke
Humorous statement seeking laughter
banter · wisecrack · zinger · bit · setup · callback · wordplay · slapstick · physical comedy · deadpan
vaudeville
Theatrical variety entertainment
monologue · routine · shtick · pantomime · cabaret · burlesque · revue · variety · clowning · timing
parody
Satirical imitation
roast · caricature · mockery · ridicule · takeoff · irony · sarcasm · wit · political humor · social commentary
gagmancomedian
Professional humor performer
comic · performer · stand-up comedian · comedic actor · funnyman
gagmantearjerker
Emotionally manipulative entertainment
weeper · downer · killjoy · wet blanket · buzzkill