A sitcom, short for "situational comedy," is a genre of television show that focuses on a fixed set of characters in a consistent setting. These shows typically revolve around humorous situations and interactions among the characters, often highlighting everyday life and relationships. Popular examples of sitcoms include Friends, The Office, and Seinfeld. Sitcoms usually feature a laugh track or live audience to enhance the comedic experience. Episodes are often around 20-30 minutes long and follow a formulaic structure, with a beginning, middle, and end. The humor in sitcoms can range from witty dialogue to physical comedy, appealing to a wide audience.