pun
A pun is a form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings of a term or similar-sounding words for humorous effect. It often relies on the ambiguity of language, creating a clever twist that can surprise the audience. Puns are commonly used in jokes, literature, and everyday conversation to add a playful element.
For example, a classic pun is the phrase, “Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.” Here, the word “flies” is used in two different contexts, creating a humorous connection between time and fruit. Puns can be found in various forms of media, including comedy, advertising, and poetry.