Deadpan

/ˈdɛdˌpæn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a style of humor characterized by a serious or expressionless demeanor.

The comedian's deadpan was a refreshing change from the usual slapstick.

adjective

deliberately impassive or expressionless, especially in delivering humor.

His deadpan delivery made the joke even funnier.

showing no emotional response, appearing serious or indifferent.

She had a deadpan expression as she recounted the absurd events of the day.

The term 'deadpan' originates from the combination of 'dead' and 'pan', where 'pan' refers to the expression on a person's face.

deadpan delivery

The act of presenting something serious or humorous without showing emotion.

play it deadpan

To act or respond in a serious or expressionless manner, even when humor is intended.

stoicism

The endurance of pain or hardship without the display of feelings and without complaint.

bland

Lacking strong features or characteristics and therefore uninteresting.

To be humorless or very serious in an ironic or sarcastic context.

He made a deadpan remark that caught everyone off guard.

A style of comedy where the performer maintains a serious demeanor while delivering humorous content.

Her stand-up routine was all deadpan, and it had the crowd in stitches.