One basis of jokes that are ages old, the word you may hear is not what was told. It sounds so alike a different thing; context clues help you gain an understanding.

I can be cracked, I can be made, I can be told, I can be played. I can be told to a friend or foe, But once I’m known, I often go.

The English loves me, a gesture of good will. When taken, tears of happiness they cry. The German fear me, a deadly concoction. When taken, they would surely die.

I appear in a mess, but I am not a single dress. You might see me in dryers, but lost socks go on flyers..

Some are on the run, others may bleed. Each of you have one that might be in need, of a tissue or powder or a picking too, but don't do the latter as others find it rude.