Langimage
English

deadpan

|dead/pan|

B2

/ˈdɛdˌpæn/

emotionless expression

Etymology
Etymology Information

'deadpan' originates from the combination of 'dead' and 'pan,' where 'pan' was slang for 'face.'

Historical Evolution

'deadpan' was first used in the 1920s to describe a style of humor.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to a lack of expression, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a style of comedy characterized by a deliberate lack of emotion.

Her deadpan was perfect for the role.

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Antonyms

Verb 1

to say something amusing while showing no emotion.

He deadpanned his way through the entire interview.

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Antonyms

Adjective 1

displaying no emotion or expression, especially in a humorous context.

He delivered the joke in a deadpan manner.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40