Gallows humour meaning

Gallows humour is a type of humor that is darker and more morbid, typically involving jokes about tragic or distressing situations.


Gallows humour definitions

Word backwards swollag ruomuh
Part of speech "Gallows humour" is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division gal-lows hu-mour
Plural The plural of the word "gallows humour" is "gallows humours."
Total letters 13
Vogais (3) a,o,u
Consonants (7) g,l,w,s,h,m,r

Gallows Humour: Coping with Dark Times

Understanding Gallows Humour

Gallows humour is a type of comedy that is used to cope with serious, frightening, or painful situations. It is often employed in instances where individuals face death, tragedy, or other extreme circumstances. This form of humour can be seen as a defense mechanism, allowing people to find some relief in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Origins of Gallows Humour

The term "gallows humour" dates back to the 19th century and refers to the humor expressed by individuals facing imminent death by hanging. Over time, the concept has evolved to encompass a broader range of situations where individuals use dark comedy to cope with distressing events. This type of humour can be found in literature, film, and everyday life.

The Function of Gallows Humour

Gallows humour serves several important functions. It can create a sense of camaraderie among individuals facing a shared hardship, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity. Additionally, it allows people to momentarily escape from the gravity of a situation and find a brief moment of levity in an otherwise grim reality. In some cases, gallows humour may even help individuals process their emotions and come to terms with difficult circumstances.

Challenges and Controversies

While gallows humour can be a valuable coping mechanism, it is not without its challenges and controversies. Some individuals may find this type of humor offensive or inappropriate, particularly when it comes to sensitive topics such as death or tragedy. It is essential to consider the context and audience when using gallows humour and to be mindful of the potential impact on others.

The Intersection of Comedy and Tragedy

Gallows humour exists at the intersection of comedy and tragedy, offering a unique perspective on the human experience. By finding humor in the face of darkness, individuals can navigate challenging situations with resilience and courage. While not everyone may appreciate gallows humour, for some, it can provide a much-needed release valve in times of crisis.


Gallows humour Examples

  1. Despite being trapped in a dark cave, the hiker tried to lighten the mood with some gallows humour.
  2. The soldiers used gallows humour to cope with the stress of being on the battlefield.
  3. Even in the face of impending doom, the comedian managed to find a way to incorporate gallows humour into his act.
  4. The doctors and nurses working in the emergency room often use gallows humour as a coping mechanism.
  5. During a particularly tense moment in the horror movie, the characters tried to break the tension with some gallows humour.
  6. The detective used gallows humour to lighten the mood while investigating a gruesome murder case.
  7. The passengers on the turbulent flight found solace in each other's company and shared moments of gallows humour.
  8. As they waited for news on the outcome of the hostage situation, the hostages tried to make light of the situation with some gallows humour.
  9. The stand-up comedian pushed the boundaries of taste with his use of gallows humour in his act.
  10. Despite the grim reality of the situation, the group of survivors managed to find moments of levity with some well-placed gallows humour.


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  • Updated 26/03/2024 - 18:45:47