Dad jokes are infamous for their groan-inducing puns and predictable punchlines. These jokes are often seen as corny but endearing, embodying a type of humor that is both terrible and hilarious.

But have you ever wondered where the term, “dad jokes” came from? And why these punny jokes make us laugh so much?

According to this article from Seattle Times, the term “dad joke” was first coined in 1987 by Jim Kalbaugh in the Gettysburg Times, who advocated for preserving these jokes as a cherished tradition of fatherhood. However, the concept of dad jokes predates the term itself. Historical evidence suggests that similar humor was present in Ancient Rome, and various cultures around the world have their own versions of dad jokes, such as “oyaji gyagu” in Japan and “onkel humor” in Denmark. This shows that the appeal of dad jokes is both long-standing and widespread.

In the article, the author explains that Dad jokes are often considered a form of “anti-humor,” where the humor arises from the deliberate lack of cleverness in the punchline. Humor researcher Marc Hye-Knudsen suggests that the simplicity and predictability of dad jokes make them endearing and funny in their own right. These jokes also play a role in pushing children’s boundaries for embarrassment, which can help them build resilience and self-confidence.

Moreover, dad jokes contribute to mental well-being by fostering laughter, which reduces stress and enhances social bonds

So, next time your dad starts up with his ridiculous humor, instead of rolling your eyes, just remember that he’s keeping up with an ancient tradition of all those who proudly wear the title of “dad.”