The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

double-entendre

IPA:

Dictionary definition of double-entendre

A double meaning, often intentionally, where one interpretation is innocent or straightforward, and the other carries a more risqué, suggestive, or humorous connotation.
"The advertisement relied on a subtle double entendre to create intrigue and capture the viewers' attention."

Detailed meaning of double-entendre

This clever play on words or phrase allows for different interpretations depending on the context or the listener's perception. Double entendres are frequently used in literature, comedy, and advertising to create humor, evoke curiosity, or add a layer of complexity to the communication. They rely on the listener's ability to recognize and appreciate the dual meanings, often leading to witty or humorous exchanges. However, it is essential to consider the audience and appropriateness when employing double entendres, as they can be provocative or offensive if used inappropriately.

Example sentences containing double-entendre

1. The comedian's routine was filled with clever double entendres that had the audience laughing uproariously.
2. The novel was known for its clever use of double entendres, adding depth and wit to the dialogue.
3. The comedian's ability to deliver risqué double entendres with perfect timing made them a crowd favorite.
4. The song's lyrics were full of playful double entendres that added a layer of intrigue to the romantic ballad.
5. The politician's speech was criticized for including inappropriate double entendres that undermined the seriousness of the topic.
6. The cartoon included a clever double entendre that went over the heads of the younger viewers but elicited chuckles from the adults.

History and etymology of double-entendre

The noun 'double-entendre' has its etymological roots in the French language. It is a combination of two French words: 'double,' meaning 'double,' and 'entendre,' which means 'to understand' or 'to intend.' Therefore, the etymology of 'double-entendre' essentially conveys the idea of a double or dual meaning that can be understood in two ways. This term entered English in the 17th century and became associated with phrases or expressions that carry a double meaning, often intentionally. In a double-entendre, one interpretation is innocent or straightforward, while the other conveys a more risqué, suggestive, or humorous connotation. The word's etymology underscores its function in language and humor, where the deliberate use of ambiguity adds depth and often a touch of wit to communication.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun double-entendre:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of double-entendre

1. The witty conversation between the characters was filled with clever double entendres, keeping the audience engaged.
2. The stand-up comedian was skilled at crafting double entendres that pushed the boundaries of acceptable humor.
3. The movie employed double entendres to add an element of humor that resonated with the adult audience.
4. The comedian's use of subtle double entendres showcased their mastery of wordplay and clever innuendo.
5. The writer's clever use of double entendres in the dialogue added a layer of sophistication to the play.
6. Her clever use of a double-entendre left the audience chuckling.
7. The comedian's jokes were filled with witty double-entendres.
8. The song's lyrics had a subtle double-entendre that made listeners smirk.
9. He couldn't help but blush when she made a sly double-entendre.
10. The writer's mastery of double-entendres added depth to the dialogue.
11. The flirtatious banter was laced with playful double-entendres.
12. The novel's title was a clever double-entendre that intrigued readers.
13. The politician's speech contained a thinly veiled double-entendre.
14. Their conversation was full of risqué double-entendres.
15. The stand-up comedian was a master of the art of double-entendre.
16. Her witty double-entendres always kept the conversation lively.
17. The film's humor relied heavily on clever double-entendres.
18. The advertisement used a subtle double-entendre to grab attention.
19. The detective's sharp mind caught the subtle double-entendre.
20. His innocent comment had an unintentional double-entendre.
21. The playwright's use of double-entendres added spice to the play.
22. The comedian's double-entendre drew both laughs and gasps.
23. The song's catchy chorus had a hidden double-entendre.
24. The clever double-entendre in the headline caught readers' eyes.
25. She delivered the compliment with a playful double-entendre.