Gag
/ɡæɡ/noun
A device or act that prevents speech, or a joke intended to provoke laughter.
Did you know?English *gag* is likely an imitative word, but the same root gave rise to the idea of a mouth being forcibly stopped, which is why it can mean both a restraint and a joke that “stifles” laughter.
Etymological Timeline
16th Century
English
gag
“A choking or retching sound; later, a device placed in the mouth to prevent speech.”
16th–17th Century
English
gag
“To choke, retch, or stuff something into the throat; also to silence someone forcibly.”
18th Century
English
gag
“A joke or comic bit, especially one that “stops” the flow of ordinary speech with surprise.”
Modern English
English
gag
“A device that prevents speaking, or a joke or comic stunt.”