Comic

Definition

Comic refers to something that is funny or intended to make people laugh. It can also refer to a professional performer who tells jokes and performs comical acts. Additionally, the term is used to describe a medium of expression, such as comic strips or comic books, which tell stories through a combination of pictures and text.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːmɪk/
• Respelling: KAH-mik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmɪk/
• Respelling: KOM-ik

The pronunciation of "comic" is similar in both American and British English, with slight variations in the vowel sound of the first syllable.

Etymology

The word "comic" originates from the Latin word "comicus," which is derived from the Greek word "komikos," meaning "of or pertaining to comedy." The term entered the English language in the late 16th century and has since evolved to include various forms of humorous entertainment.

Derivatives

• Comical (adjective)
• Comically (adverb)
• Comedian (noun)
• Comic strip (noun)
• Comic book (noun)

Synonyms

• Humorous
• Funny
• Amusing

Antonyms

• Serious
• Solemn
• Tragic

Usage

The term "comic" is widely used to describe anything related to humor. For example, "He has a comic talent that never fails to entertain," or "She enjoys reading comics in her spare time."

Related Terms

• Comedy: A genre of entertainment that seeks to entertain by making people laugh.
• Satire: The use of humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or expose flaws in society or individuals.
• Caricature: A depiction that exaggerates certain characteristics for comic effect.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to or characterized by comedy: This definition is used when describing something that is intended to be humorous or entertaining.
  • Example: "The show has a very comic tone."
• Funny; amusing: Used to describe something that causes laughter.
  • Example: "The movie was very comic and had the audience in stitches."

Noun

• A professional entertainer who tells jokes and performs comical acts: Refers to a comedian or someone who performs in a comedic style.
  • Example: "The comic had everyone laughing with his witty jokes."
• A publication that tells stories through pictures and text: Refers to comic strips or comic books.
  • Example: "He collects vintage comics from the 1960s."