The Definition: simple, wholesome, usually a pun, and rarely funny. The Goal: Not laughter, but a groan.
The "Dad Joke" has become a cultural phenomenon. But why do dads tell them?
The "Annoyance" Factor
According to research (yes, people research this), Dad Jokes are a form of benign power play. By telling a joke so bad that it causes physical pain to his children, the Dad frames himself as harmlessly uncool. He is willing to debase himself for a reaction.
It also serves as a "check-in." If the kids roll their eyes, they are engaging. It forces interaction.
The Pun Mechanism
Dad jokes almost exclusively rely on puns. "I'm afraid for the calendar. Its days are numbered." "I only know 25 letters of the alphabet. I don't know y."
These jokes are linguistic puzzles for children. They teach kids that words can have multiple meanings. So, technically, Dad Jokes are educational tools. (Tell that to your kids next time they groan).
The Modern Renaissance
The Dad Joke has moved from the kitchen table to the internet. Channels like "Dad Jokes" on Reddit have millions of subscribers. In a complex, cynical world, there is something comforting about a joke that is purely, innocently silly.