English Dictionary

Definition of “slapstick

slapstick (ˈslæpˌstɪkPronunciation for slapstick

Definitions

noun

    1. comedy characterized by horseplay and physical action
    2. ((as modifier)  ⇒ slapstick humour 
  1. a flexible pair of paddles bound together at one end, formerly used in pantomime to strike a blow to a person with a loud clapping sound but without injury

Synonyms

View thesaurus entry
= farce, horseplay, buffoonery, knockabout comedy

Usage examples

  • Absurd, slapstick things - people falling over, getting stuck and so on.
    Various, Looking For the Spark (1994)
  • It's a more genteel, charming comedy, quite unlike the standard Bollywood slapstick.
    India Today (1997)
  • The seniors in the study, however, were not into slapstick , particularly.
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • This is probably true - but please, please not the awful slapstick from the past.
    Sun, News of the World (2002)
  • Essential components of clown routines are trips and pratfalls and basic slapstick.
    Bain, Roly, Fools Rush In - A Call to Christian Clowning (1993)

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