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.
Leverage Comic Relief Connect genuinely with people and use comic relief to lighten a sense of reluctance, resistance or frustration. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025 Sinbad serves up comic relief with Oakes' colorful personality and outlandish outfits. James Mercadante, EW.com, 12 Feb. 2025 Miguel Cabrera does good work in providing comic relief. Matthew J. Palm, Orlando Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2025 Meanwhile, Grace provides plenty of comic relief as the jittery prisoner who manages to make snarky wisecracks even while on the verge of dying. Frank Scheck, The Hollywood Reporter, 23 Jan. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Comic relief.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/comic%20relief. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

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