pun
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /pʌn/
KK: /pʌn/
intransitive verb
Definition
To play with words in a humorous way by using a word that has two meanings or sounds like another word.
Example
He loves to pun during conversations, making everyone laugh with his clever wordplay.
Tense Forms
Past: punned
Past Participle: punned
Conversation
Did you hear the joke about the elevator?
No, but I bet it has a great pun in it!
It really does! I love how clever puns can be.
Same here! They always make me laugh.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
joke
quip
play
Antonyms
seriousness
solemnity
gravity
noun
Definition
A humorous way of using a word that suggests two or more meanings or sounds like another word.
Example
He made a clever pun about the bakery being the best place to get a rise out of people.
Conversation
Did you hear that new joke about the construction worker?
No, I haven't! What's the pun?
He said he was trying to build a better future!
Root Explanation
The word 'pun' originates from the late 17th century, possibly derived from the word 'pundigrion', which is a variant of 'pundigrion' (meaning a play on words). It refers to a form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings of a term or similar-sounding words for humorous or rhetorical effect.
Memory Tip
Think of a clever play on words that makes you smile — that's what a pun is all about!
Visually Confused Words
spun
puan
un
pu