take a joke
Handle being ribbed
To take a joke is to respond good-naturedly when you're the target of teasing or humor, rather than becoming offended or upset.
Someone who can take a joke doesn't get defensive when friends rib them about their quirks or mistakes.
The phrase often appears in defensive contexts: Relax, it was just a joke—can't you take a joke?
People who dish out humor but react poorly when it's directed at them are said to be unable to take a joke.
Provoking laughter or suspicion
- comedyWork meant to amuse
- witClever, inventive humor
- jestHumorous remark or act
- gagMouth restraint or jest
punchline · banter · quip · teasing · ribbing · roast · jab · wisecrack
Having a friendly temperament
- easygoingRelaxed in temperament
- affableWarm and approachable
- genialPleasantly warm-mannered
- jovialCheerful and friendly
amiable · cheerful · lighthearted · playful · sportive · convivial · agreeable · laid-back
Resistant to criticism
- unflappableImpossible to disturb
- unbotheredNot disturbed or concerned
- unruffledEmotionally undisturbed, placid
- composedCalm and self-possessed
coolheaded · imperturbable · equanimity · tolerant · forbearing · nonchalant · unfazed · stoic
funny
Provoking laughter or suspicion
gag · punchline · banter · quip · teasing · ribbing · roast · jab · wisecrack · razzing
good-natured
Having a friendly temperament
jovial · amiable · cheerful · lighthearted · playful · sportive · convivial · agreeable · laid-back · fun-loving
thick-skinned
Resistant to criticism
- unflappableImpossible to disturb
- unbotheredNot disturbed or concerned
- unruffledEmotionally undisturbed, placid
composed · coolheaded · imperturbable · equanimity · tolerant · forbearing · nonchalant · unfazed · stoic · self-assured
take a joketake offense
Feel insulted or hurt
get bent out of shape · bristle · take umbrage · overreact · fly off the handle
take a jokelash out
Attack abruptly in anger
snap back · storm off · hold a grudge · give the cold shoulder · make a scene
take, joke, takes, took, taken, taking, taker, takers, retake