Dad Joke
Meaning: A simple, corny joke, often a pun, that makes people groan or roll their eyes more than laugh.
Why are cheesy jokes called “dad jokes”? Because they’re often simple, pun-based, and intentionally groan-worthy—like something a dad would say to make his kids roll their eyes. For example: “What do you call fake spaghetti? An impasta!” Dad jokes are so popular they’ve become a beloved (and cringy) part of English humor.
How to use it
The name comes from the idea that dads love telling these jokes to embarrass their kids, but anyone can tell one. It’s casual and affectionate, not an insult. People often react with “That’s such a dad joke” or just a groan. You can “tell a dad joke” or “make a dad joke.”
Examples
- “Why did the scarecrow get promoted? He was outstanding in his field.” “Wow, that’s such a dad joke.”
- My manager starts every meeting with a dad joke.
- Sorry, I couldn’t resist a dad joke.
A common mistake
A dad joke isn’t a joke about dads, and it isn’t only for fathers. Anyone can tell one: she told a dad joke is completely natural.
Say it out loud
Tabbi Daily gives you one short lesson like this every day. Listen, record yourself and hear how you sound. Free, no account needed.
Source: Honest History