A sitcom (short for "situational comedy") is a genre of television show that focuses on a fixed set of characters who are involved in humorous situations. These shows typically use a consistent setting, like a family home or workplace, and often feature recurring themes, witty dialogue, and laughs that come from relatable everyday situations.
The term "sitcom" is a blend of "situation" and "comedy." The word "situation" refers to the specific circumstances or context where the comedic events take place, while "comedy" refers to the genre of entertainment that aims to make people laugh. The term began to gain popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly with the rise of television.