Dictionary

1pun

noun \ˈpən\

: a humorous way of using a word or phrase so that more than one meaning is suggested

Full Definition of PUN

:  the usually humorous use of a word in such a way as to suggest two or more of its meanings or the meaning of another word similar in sound
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of PUN

perhaps from Italian puntiglio fine point, quibble — more at punctilio
First Known Use: 1662

Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms

ablaut, allusion, anacoluthon, diacritic, gerund, idiom, infinitive, metaphor, semiotics, simile

Rhymes with PUN

2pun

verb

: to make a pun

punnedpun·ning

Full Definition of PUN

intransitive verb
:  to make puns

First Known Use of PUN

1670

Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms

ablaut, allusion, anacoluthon, diacritic, gerund, idiom, infinitive, metaphor, semiotics, simile
PUN[1] Defined for Kids

1pun

noun \ˈpən\

Definition of PUN for Kids

:  a form of joking in which a person uses a word in two senses

2pun

verb
punnedpun·ning

Definition of PUN for Kids

:  to make a joke by using a word in two senses

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: punaPrevious Word in the Dictionary: pump wellAll Words Near: pun
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears