Here's a breakdown:
* Double: Refers to the two meanings.
* Entendre: Means "to understand" or "to hear."
Examples:
* "I'm going to the bank." This could mean going to a financial institution, or going to a riverbank.
* "The comedian was really funny, he had me in stitches." This could mean the comedian was very amusing, or that the listener was laughing so hard their body was literally in stitches.
Key features of a double entendre:
* Playful: It's meant to be witty and clever, often used for comedic effect.
* Ambiguous: The intended meaning is open to interpretation, adding to the fun.
* Context-dependent: The intended meaning often depends on the situation and the listener's interpretation.
Double entendres are commonly found in jokes, puns, song lyrics, and even everyday conversations. They can be a fun way to add a layer of humor and sophistication to communication.