double take

noun

1. a rapid or surprised second look, either literal or figurative, at a person or situation whose significance had not been completely grasped at first:

   His friends did a double take when they saw how much weight he had lost.

double take

noun

1. (esp in comedy) a delayed reaction by a person to a remark, situation, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of double take¹

An Americanism dating back to 1935–40

Example Sentences

His version of a double take was a blank stare, his weapon the throwaway ironic remark.

From Los Angeles Times

Malcolm Wood, an English teacher in North Yorkshire, did a double take recently as he passed by a quiet road, St. Mary’s Walk.

From New York Times

The spit move returns, at different angles, along with deadpan double takes and witticisms.

From New York Times

When he sees me, he does a double take.

From Literature

This time, the stunt double takes center stage.

From Los Angeles Times