running joke
Repeated comedic callback
A running joke is a humorous reference that recurs across multiple occasions, gaining comic effect through repetition.
The joke builds on shared context—what was funny once becomes funnier the fifth time because everyone remembers the previous instances: The broken copier became a running joke at the office.
Running jokes appear in friendships, workplaces, TV series, and comedy routines, creating insider humor among those who know the history.
Follow-up audition invitation
- recurringHappening repeatedly over time
- catchphraseSignature line of words
- refrainAbstain from acting
- motifRecurring thematic element
tradition · continuity · shtick · ritual · staple · pattern · persistent · enduring
callback
Follow-up audition invitation
- recurringHappening repeatedly over time
- catchphraseSignature line of words
- refrainAbstain from acting
motif · tradition · continuity · shtick · ritual · staple · pattern · persistent · enduring · habitual
gag
Mouth restraint or jest
jest · one-liner · wisecrack · comic relief · setup · payoff · timing · delivery · comedian · sitcom
tease
Mock playfully
mockery · sarcasm · repartee · badinage · raillery · chaff · joshing · needling · razzing · dig
- humorcomedy, comic, funny, hilarious, amusing
- pop culturememe, celebrities, memes, trending, fandoms
- comedycomedy, humor, puns, sarcasm, stand-up
- catchphrasescatchphrase, why so serious, cowabunga, good grief, yabba dabba doo