what makes a joke a 'dad joke'?

If someone ever asks you what makes a joke a 'dad joke', you probably know the answer without needing to ponder for very long. dad jokes are easy to spot, no matter what part of the internet you're browsing. Characters in movies and sitcoms understand this joke formula, and some even revel in delivering them. So what is the definition of a dad joke?

By definition, a dad joke is a corny and typically clichéd punchline that is delivered with a straight face and often a deadpan delivery. Dad jokes are often self-deprecating, and although they are clichéd, they are also usually absurdly unexpected in some way. The jokes usually contain puns, blatantly obvious set-up lines and sometimes even corny wordplay.

For those of us who consider ourselves well-versed in dad jokes, or those who have found themselves on the receiving end of a dad's hilariously corny humor, there are some fundamental attributes that make up a dad joke. Dad jokes are often jaw-droppingly awkward and are sometimes met with audible groans. But, regardless of the audience's reaction, the best dad jokes often come out of the blue, giving the joke an element of surprise.

It is this surprise element that can often get the audience to laugh and that is actually one of the hallmarks of a dad joke. The surprise of an unexpected punchline — coupled with the dad's matter-of-fact delivery — can often create a unique laughter.

So what are some funny dad jokes? A classic example of a dad joke is this joke: "What did the fish say when he hit the wall?— Dam!" Another go-to dad joke is: "Why don't scientists trust atoms? — Because they make up everything!" And lastly, here's a slightly more cryptic dad joke - "Why did the scarecrow get a promotion? – Because he was outstanding in his field."