A double entendre is a figure of speech in which a phrase can be understood in two different ways, often with one meaning being more straightforward and the other more suggestive or humorous. This literary device is commonly used in literature, music, and everyday conversation to add depth or wit to the dialogue. The effectiveness of a double entendre relies on the audience's ability to recognize both meanings. For example, in Shakespeare's plays, characters often use double entendres to convey hidden messages or to create comedic situations. This technique engages the audience, inviting them to think critically about the language being used.