comic relief

noun

1. 1. an easing, as of pain, discomfort, or anxiety
   2. a lightening of a burden, as of taxation, oppression, etc.
2. anything that lessens tension or strain, or offers a pleasing change, as to the mind or eye
3. aid in the form of goods or money given, as by a government agency, to persons unable to support themselves
4. any aid given in times of need, danger, or disaster, as supplies sent into a flooded area
5. 1. release from work or duty
   2. the person or persons bringing such release by taking over a post
6. a payment made by the heir of a feudal vassal to the overlord on taking over an estate

7. Etymology: Fr < It relievo < rilevare, to raise: see relieve

   Archit., Sculpture
   1. the projection of figures and forms from a flat surface, so that they stand wholly or partly free
   2. a work of art so made
8. Law the assistance or redress sought by a complainant in a court, esp. a court of equity
9. Literature, Drama
   1. sharp contrast, as of ideas, actions, or events
   2. comic scenes in a serious drama or film
      in full comic relief
10. 1. Painting the apparent solidity or projection of objects, obtained by modeling and gradation in color, etc.
    2. distinctness of outline; contrast
11. Geol.
    1. the differences in height, collectively, of land forms in any particular area
    2. these differences as shown by lines, colors, raised areas, etc. on a map
12. Printing a method of printing in which the image is carried on raised surfaces; letterpress

Etymology: ME releef < OFr relief < relever: see relieve

adjective