Butt of The Joke: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 8, 2023

"Butt of a joke" is a common idiom used in everyday conversations to express that someone is the target or subject of a joke, often at their expense. It refers to a person who is teased or made fun of in a humorous situation.

In short:

"Butt of the joke" means someone is the subject of a joke or being made fun of, often at their own expense.

What Does "Butt of the Joke" Mean?

The idiom "butt of a joke" refers to the person who is the target of a joke, usually being teased or made fun of in a humorous context. This phrase can be used in various situations, ranging from light-hearted teasing among friends to more mean-spirited mockery.

  • Used to describe the target of a joke or teasing
  • Can range from light-hearted humor to mean-spirited mockery

Where Does "Butt of a Joke" Come From?

The phrase "butt of the joke" finds its origins in the Old French word "but," which meant to aim or target something, especially with an arrow. By the 14th century, "butt" referred to the support or target for an archery target. From this usage emerged the phrase "butt of the joke," implying that someone is the target of ridicule, similar to an archery target.

Historical Examples

"Nothing is more sensitive than a new community or an old community that is made the butt of a joke."

- National Magazine, Vol 32, 1910

"You made my name the butt of a joke and gave it to a meddlesome old gossip to carry all over this town."

- Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineer's Monthly Journal, Vol 37, 1903

10 Examples of "Butt of a Joke" in Sentences

Here are ten examples of how the phrase can be used in sentences:

  • Matthew was often the butt of a joke because of his clumsiness.
  • Thanks for checking up on me, but I don't appreciate being the butt of a joke when I'm not around.
  • He didn't mind being the butt of a joke as long as it was in good fun.
  • She spilled coffee on me and now thinks it's okay to make me the butt of her jokes.
  • It's not fair to make Joe the butt of a joke; he is a gentleman and a scholar.
  • After the prank, she became the butt of the joke among her friends.
  • I won't tolerate your gnarly pranks next time - I don't want to be the butt of a joke again.
  • They made the new guy the butt of the joke as part of their initiation.
  • She felt embarrassed when she realized she was the butt of the joke.
  • When John logged in to the forum, he realized he had become the butt of a joke among his online friends.

Examples of "Butt of a Joke" in Pop Culture

The phrase "butt of a joke" is commonly used in movies, television shows, and literature to describe a character who is the subject of humor, often at their own expense. It often appears in comedic scenes, highlighting the humorous aspect of a situation or character.

  • "I'm not usually the butt of the joke. I'm usually the face of the joke." —The Office (2005-2013)
  • "There is generally the butt of a joke, at whose expense the joke is told." —The Art of Presenting: Getting It Right in the Post-Modern World, Allan Gillies, 2018
  • "These jokes rely on simple put-downs to express dislike of whichever politician is chosen as the butt of a joke." —Geek Chic: Smart Women in Popular Culture, S. Inness, 2016

Other Ways to Say "Butt of a Joke"

There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "butt of a joke."

Some of these include:

  • Subject of ridicule
  • Laughingstock
  • Target of mockery
  • Object of derision

These alternatives can be used interchangeably depending on the context and the level of formality or familiarity between the speakers.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Butt of a Joke"

  • Is "butt of a joke" a formal expression?

"Butt of a joke" is not considered overly formal and can be used in both casual and formal settings, though it might be more appropriate to use one of the alternative phrases in more formal contexts.

  • Can "butt of a joke" be used to describe a situation rather than a person?

Yes, the phrase can also be used to describe a situation or event that becomes the subject of humor or mockery, though it is more commonly used to refer to a person.

  • Is the phrase appropriate for professional settings?

While the phrase can be used in professional settings, it should be used with caution, as making someone the "butt of a joke" in such an environment may be inappropriate or offensive.

  • Can the phrase be used in written communication?

Yes, "butt of a joke" can be used in written communication, such as emails or text messages, to describe a person or situation that is the subject of humor or mockery.

  • Is the phrase "butt of a joke" derogatory?

Yes, the idiom "butt of a joke" is derogatory. It implies being subjected to unkind ridicule, mockery or scorn in a way that demeans or makes light of the person.

  • Is it offensive to make someone the "butt of a joke"?

It depends on the context and the nature of the joke. Light-hearted teasing among friends might be acceptable, but making someone the "butt of a joke" in a mean-spirited or hurtful way can be offensive.

  • Can one use it to describe a self-deprecating joke?

Yes, if someone makes a joke at their own expense, they can be described as the "butt of the joke."

  • Can animals be the "butt of a joke"?

Yes, animals can also be the "butt of a joke" in stories, cartoons, or anecdotes where they are portrayed humorously or become the subject of ridicule or mockery.

  • Is there a power dynamic implied in the phrase?

Often, yes. The "butt of a joke" is usually in a weaker position than those subjecting them to ridicule. Power imbalances allow for insensitive humor that marginalizes and demeans the target. In some cases, the phrase can imply bullying or abuse.

  • Can one use it to describe a recurring theme in a comedy?

Yes, the phrase "butt of a joke" can be used to describe a recurring theme or element in a comedy that consistently serves as the subject of humor or mockery.

Final Thoughts About "Butt of a Joke"

In essence, the idiom "butt of a joke" is a flexible expression denoting a person or thing subjected to humor or ridicule. Though applicable in diverse contexts, it's crucial to consider the emotions and responses of those involved, as being the 'butt of a joke' can occasionally be offensive or harmful.

Key aspects of the idiom "butt of a joke":

  • Refers to the target or subject of a joke or mockery
  • Emphasizes that the person or thing is being made fun of, often at their own expense
  • Originated from the Old French word "but," which meant to aim or target something

By understanding the nuances of the phrase, users can effectively communicate the humorous aspect of a situation or character and navigate conversations involving jests and mockery with sensitivity and awareness.

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