running jokes
Repeated comedic callbacks
A running joke is a humorous reference that recurs throughout a conversation, relationship, show, or other extended context, gaining comedy from repetition and shared recognition.
The humor often depends on accumulated history—what's funny isn't the joke itself but that it keeps coming back: The running joke in our family is that Dad can't cook rice.
Running jokes can become inside jokes, incomprehensible to outsiders.
- callbackFollow-up audition invitation
- call backContact someone again
- schtickTrademark comedic routine
- gagMouth restraint or jest
- comedicRelating to humor
punchline · comic timing · wit · quip · recurring bit · banter · recurring characters · ensemble cast · catchphrase · humor · chuckle · anecdote · amusement · memes · situational comedy · laugh track · wordplay · comic relief