Funnybones

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The term refers to the area on the arm where the ulnar nerve runs close to the surface, often causing a tingling sensation when struck ; it also denotes a part of the human anatomy popularly associated with humor due to the laughter it can elicit when tickled or hit ; colloquially, it can imply something that triggers laughter or amusement by metaphorically "hitting the right spot" on personal sense of humor
2. This expression describes the sensitive nerve near the elbow that causes a distinctive tingling or shock-like feeling when bumped ; it can additionally be used to describe a source of comedic effect or delight that figuratively stimulates laughter ; in popular use, it sometimes symbolically signifies the part of a person or situation that is especially prone to triggering humor or joy
3. It names the nerve area beside the elbow where a sudden jolt causes a funny tingling or prickling sensation ; it may also refer to a metaphorical concept of an area that incites laughter when engaged ; in casual speech, it can describe anything that provokes humor or tickles one’s sense of amusement effectively

Etymology: The "funny bone" is the spot at the elbow where the ulnar nerve runs close to the surface, just behind the bony knob of the humerus. Strike it and the nerve sends a sharp, tingling jolt down the arm, which is why the sensation feels more like a shock than a pain. The name is a playful joke rather than a medical term: the "funny" is not about humour but reflects the odd, almost comical sensation of the blow. "Funnybones" is simply the plural of "funnybone", used when speaking of more than one such spot, or of the general experience of being struck there. Its real interest lies in the singular, since the plural adds nothing new to the story.

Synonyms: ulnar nerves