CultureAugust 26, 2026

screwball

SKROO-bawl

Definition

A style of comedy characterized by zany, improbable situations, fast-paced dialogue, and eccentric characters.

Etymology

Originating in American baseball, the word refers to a pitch that spins irregularly. It evolved in the 1930s to describe erratic or crazy behavior and eventually became a genre label for chaotic, funny films.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the 1991 film 'Oscar,' highlighting the movie's comedic style and tone. It helps categorize the type of humor Tim Curry excelled at throughout his career.

Tim Curry, 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' star, dies at 80

Read the full article ↗

USA Today

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