funny bone

noun

1. the part of the elbow where the ulnar nerve passes by the internal condyle of the humerus, which when struck causes a peculiar, tingling sensation in the arm and hand; crazy bone.
2. a sense of humor.

funny bone

noun

1. the area near the elbow where the ulnar nerve is close to the surface of the skin: when it is struck, a sharp tingling sensation is experienced along the forearm and hand Also called (US)crazy bone

Word History and Origins

Origin of funny bone¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

Tug at the heartstrings or tickle the funny bone; have fun with wordplay or keep it straightforward.

From Seattle Times

Bryce Harper gave the Phillies a brief scare when he hurt his funny bone in a collision at first base in Game 4.

From Seattle Times

Harper finished the game, said he was fine and had just stung his funny bone.

From Seattle Times

“Just hit my funny bone,” Harper said after the game.

From Seattle Times

Maybe Steiner tickled your funny bone, maybe not, but “deliver a condolence card” conveyed the gravity of the moment better than the similarly generic “going out to settle him down.”

From Los Angeles Times