When people think of haiku, they usually picture serious poets sitting by a silent pond, meditating on a falling leaf or a leaping frog. And while nature haiku is beautiful, the 5-7-5 format is also the perfect vehicle for a punchline.
Humorous haikus that focus on human nature rather than the seasons are traditionally called senryu in Japanese.
Whether you are looking for a laugh or need inspiration for a classroom activity, here are some of the best funny haiku examples for kids and adults.
Funny Haiku Examples for Kids
Kids love writing poetry when it doesn't have to be serious. If you are a teacher, try reading these aloud and having your students clap out the 5-7-5 syllables with you!
The Dog
I smell a hot dog (5)
Drool is dropping on the floor (7)
Oops I ate it all (5)
My Messy Room
Toys are everywhere (5)
Mom said clean it up right now (7)
But I am so tired (5)
Winter Problems
Putting my coat on (5)
Scarf and hat and thick mittens (7)
Now I have to pee (5)
(For more child-friendly poetry tips, check out our complete Haiku for Kids Guide)
Funny Haiku Examples About Everyday Life
The best senryu capture the mundane, awkward, or frustrating moments of daily life that we all universally experience.
The Alarm Clock
Five more minutes please (5)
I hit the snooze button twice (7)
Now I am so late (5)
The Diet
Salad for lunch time (5)
Healthy body healthy mind (7)
Ate a whole pizza (5)
Technology
Password incorrect (5)
I type it in once again (7)
Blocked for thirty days (5)
Funny Haiku About Pets
Anyone with a cat or dog knows that they are practically begging to be written about in a haiku.
The Cat
You bought an expensive bed (7)
Made of softest velvet plush (7)
I sleep in the box (5)
Wait... "expensive bed" has 4 syllables, plus 3 from "you bought an" equals 7! This one breaks the 5-7-5 rule, but cats don't follow rules anyway.
The Dog at the Door
Scratching at the door (5)
I must go outside right now (7)
Just kidding I'll stay (5)
Write Your Own Funny Haiku
Writing a funny haiku is all about the Setup and Punchline.
- Line 1 (5 Syllables): Introduce the situation (The Setup).
- Line 2 (7 Syllables): Expand the situation or introduce a complication.
- Line 3 (5 Syllables): Deliver the twist or punchline!
Grab a notebook and try writing your own. What was the most annoying or funny thing that happened to you today? Can you fit it into three short lines?