In comedy, a "straight man" is a character who plays a serious or neutral role, often serving as a foil to a more comedic character. This character typically reacts to the absurdity or humor presented by others, highlighting the comedic elements through their serious demeanor. The straight man's reactions can enhance the overall humor of a scene. The straight man is commonly found in various comedic formats, including sketch comedy, stand-up routines, and sitcoms. Famous examples include Abbot and Costello, where one character plays the straight man to the other's antics, creating a dynamic that amplifies the comedy.