Knock-knock jokes are humorous one-liners most commonly associated with children. They consist of a lead-in line starting with “knock-knock” and a response beginning with “who’s there?” followed by the punch line. The lead-in is the same for each joke, but the responses and punch lines vary.
Knock-knock jokes are an effective way to build rapport and humor with children, as they’re predictable, relatable, and familiar. They are also an opportunity to reinforce language and communication skills, as they involve a give and take between the joker and their audience.
History of Knock-Knock Jokes
The history of knock-knock jokes dates back to the early 1900s when advertising campaigns using this comedic format appeared in the U.S. For example, one of the first knock-knock jokes was published in a 1928 issue of the Washington Star newspaper: “Knock! Knock! Who’s There? Odessa. Odessa Who? Odessa lots of fun for everyone!”
These jokes were popularized in the 1940s with the introduction of the “Knock-Knock” book series by author S.T. Adams. The books featured a collection of silly one-liners and were aimed at children aged 4 to 8. From then on, knock-knock jokes were a staple in American culture and found their way into television shows, movies, and even into the homes of families.
Types of Knock-Knock Jokes
There are several types of knock-knock jokes that can be used to make people laugh. The most common type is the pun-based joke, which involve a play on words. These jokes involve a response and punchline that are related to each other, such as:
Knock Knock!
Who’s there?
Boo
Boo Who?
Don’t cry, it’s only a joke!
Another type of knock-knock joke is the one-liner joke. These jokes are shorter versions of the pun-based jokes and require a clever response. For example:
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Cow
Cow who?
No, cow say moooo!
Surprising Knock-Knock Jokes
Knock-knock jokes aren’t just simple one-liners – some can be quite surprising. For instance, the logic-based jokes require a clever answer from the listener in order for the joke to make sense, such as:
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
tank
Tank who?
You’re welcome!
Lastly, there are knock-knock jokes that are based on current trends and pop culture. These jokes rely on the audience’s knowledge of popular films, television shows, or current events in order to be understood, such as:
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Avengers
Avengers who?
Avenge me and find out!
Hilarious Knock-Knock Jokes That Will Make You Chuckle
Knock-knock jokes are an easy way to get the laughter flowing. To help you get the party started, here is a list of some knock-knock jokes sure to make you chuckle:
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Isaac
Isaac who?
Isaac your way out of this one!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Banana
Banana who?
Banana split, you can’t answer this one!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Boo
Boo who?
Don’t cry, it’s only a joke!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Justin
Justin who?
Justin time for a joke!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Phil
Phil who?
Phil you later, alligator!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Tank
Tank who?
You’re welcome!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Luke
Luke who?
Luke through the keyhole – it’s me!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Stew
Stew who?
Stew is going on around here?
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Dwayne
Dwayne who?
Dwayne the bathtub, I’m drowning!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Avengers
Avengers who?
Avenge me and find out!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Etch
Etch who?
Bless you!
Knock knock!
Who’s there?
Tank
Tank who?
You’re welcome!
Knock-knock jokes are a classic way to make people laugh. Whether it’s a pun-based joke, logic-based joke, surprise-based joke, or pop-culture related joke – there is a joke for everyone! As an added bonus, knock-knock jokes are an effective way to teach children language and communication skills. So, why not get the laughter going with a few of these hilarious jokes?
