A double-take is a nonverbal communication in which a second look is taken at something with a marked physical reaction such as shock, astonishment, or amazement.
[1] In theatrical terms, a "take" is a physical reaction to seeing something.
[3] With correct timing, a double-take seldom fails to get a laugh.
[4] The double-take has probably been in the comedians repertoire for centuries, and the term has been in general use since at least the 1940s.
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