Our Favourite Dadism’s Revealed this Father’s Day
Moonpig reveals the nation’s most favourite Dadisms ahead of Father’s Day
They repeat the same stories, insist they’re just “resting their eyes”, and bust out dance moves that should probably be illegal – sound familiar? Yep, we’re talking about Dad. And as it turns out, these quirks are more universal than you might think.
What makes Dad, well... Dad?
With Father’s Day just around the corner, we’ve been reflecting on the wonderfully weird world of Dadisms – and we’ve uncovered the top traits Brits associate with their father figures.
From corny jokes and DIY disasters to a fiercely guarded “Dad Chair,” here are the top 10 favourite Dadisms:
Telling bad (but endearing) jokes
Fixing things around the house
Pretending they’re not asleep, just “resting their eyes”
Falling asleep on the sofa
Starting stories with “Back in my day…”
Repeating those stories (again and again)
Defending their favourite armchair like it’s sacred
Busting out some classic Dad dancing
Moaning about the cost of everything
Complaining about what’s on telly — then watching it anyway
Cringe? Not quite.
Despite being hilariously questionable, 75% of us say we don’t find these behaviours cringey – in fact, 62% laugh at Dad jokes (even when they’re painfully unfunny), and three in four Brits say they wouldn’t want their dad to change a thing.
But here’s the kicker: we’re turning into them. A whopping 85% admit to picking up a few Dadisms themselves, from moaning about prices to falling asleep mid-show and giving the good ol’ thumbs up emoji its weekly outing.
How we’re celebrating Dad this Father’s Day
To honour the quirks we know and love, Moonpig has launched a brilliant new range of cards packed with all the classic Dadisms. Perfect for the 61% of Brits who’ll be sending a card to their father figure this year.
And what kind of card are we choosing?
50% are going for something funny
31% want a fun and personal design
30% are opting for a sentimental message
Dadism Card Top Picks
Check out some of our favourite Dadism Cards and shop the range below.
It also seems Dad wins the humour battle – 54% say they’re more likely to buy a funny card for Father’s Day than for Mother’s Day. And 73% hope to see their favourite Dadisms front and centre on the card.
A Moonpig spokesperson added: “Our father figures can be such a source of inspiration, support, and laughter – which is why it’s so important to celebrate them every chance we get. A heartfelt message, inside joke, or personalised reference to the things they love on their Father’s Day card can make all the difference to letting them know how much you care.
“So, this Father’s Day, take a moment to revel in those eye-roll-worthy Dadisms and the little things that make your bond so special – and say it all with a card that’s as unique as he is."
More than just Dad jokes
It’s not all about laughs. When asked what defines a father figure, the top traits were hardworking, caring, supportive and reliable. And some of their favourite pastimes include watching football, gardening, tackling DIY, reading, travelling and catching up with mates at the pub.
And what do they treasure most? Their car, their toolbox, and their family photos – in that order (we won’t ask where you rank).
Also, it turns out Dads are funniest when they don’t mean to be. 25% say their dads are unintentionally hilarious, compared to just 17% who think they’re trying to be. And if you’ve ever introduced your mates to your dad, don’t be surprised if he forgets their names… The average dad only remembers 35% of his kids’ friends. (8% don’t remember any!)
So, whether your dad’s the king of cringe, a DIY legend, or just really, really protective of his armchair, Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate everything that makes him uniquely him. Embrace the Dadisms, laugh at the bad jokes, and say it all with a card that’ll make him smile (or at least chuckle awkwardly before nodding off on the sofa).