comic relief

noun

: a relief from the emotional tension especially of a drama that is provided by the interposition of a comic episode or element

Examples of comic relief in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While the exchange adds brief comic relief, what sounds like affectionate teasing is also a warning of what’s to come. — Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 The other men in the band include Ray Anthony Thomas as the play’s most reliable comic relief, the bassist Slow Drag, who just wants to do the gig and move on. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 13 Oct. 2026 But even in this serious conversation, Angie can always give us a moment of comic relief (intentionally or not). — Tom Smyth, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2026 Sinbad serveed up comic relief with Oakes’ colorful personality and outlandish outfits. — Eric King, Entertainment Weekly, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for comic relief

Word History

First Known Use

1783, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of comic relief was in 1783

Rhymes for comic relief

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Browse Nearby Words

comic paper
comic relief
comic spirit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Comic relief.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/comic%20relief. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on comic relief

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about comic relief

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