Groaner

A 'groaner' is a joke, pun, or story that elicits groans or sighs, typically due to its predictability, poor execution, or obviousness. These jokes often rely on clichés, wordplay, or overly simple scenarios. A groaner is designed for the 'punny' nature, so it is meant to elicit a physical response of a groan. It can range from harmlessly cheesy to downright painful, and its humor lies in its ability to induce a reaction from the audience. A groaner often fails to land, yet remains amusing in its failure. The term highlights the contrast between the attempt at humor and the actual effect, which is more likely to cause embarrassment and cringe.

Groaner meaning with examples

• At the office party, Uncle Jerry told a series of groaner jokes that nobody liked. His corny puns about vegetables left everyone squirming in their chairs. Despite the audience's lack of laughter, he seemed completely oblivious to the groans. He thought his jokes were golden. The silence that followed each of his quips was truly deafening. The groaner jokes killed the mood.
• The dad brought out his repertoire of groaner jokes during the family road trip. His endless puns about road signs and traffic delayed everyone's arrival. The children groaned, not with laughter, but with exasperation. The parents were rolling their eyes at each other. They were all hoping the trip's end was soon. Despite their agony, the dad just smiled.
• During the stand-up comedy routine, the comic started off with a groaner involving a talking parrot. The joke was immediately predictable and flat. The audience let out a collective groan, their faces contorted in awkward amusement. The comedian tried to play it off as intended, but the lack of enthusiasm said it all. He got off the stage quicker than expected.
• At the end of the wedding ceremony, the best man offered a series of groaner toasts, filled with embarrassing anecdotes. The bride cringed. The groom's parents smiled sadly. The guests were trying to act appreciative and smile and clap. It was clear that the best man had prepared his speech over a bottle of wine and thought he was hysterical, while the audience was not.
• In the school talent show, the student told a groaner about a lost pencil that was a 'write' off. The audience groaned and face-palmed. The pun was so bad that it was good in a way. Even the judges found themselves wanting to laugh, though they tried to be professional. It was the most 'dad joke' performance.