A tardy mathematician is a play on words, as 'tardy' means 'late' and 'mathematician' refers to someone who studies mathematics.

A tangent is a line that touches a curve at a single point. In this joke, the mathematician is following a tangent, which leads him off the main path and into the forest.

Contentious means 'causing or likely to cause argument or disagreement'. A contentious mathematician is someone who is always arguing or causing arguments.

This joke is a play on the stereotype that mathematicians are often very serious and don't understand jokes. The mathematician in this joke is trying to understand a joke about mathematics, but it is too complicated for him and gives him a headache.

Fallible means 'liable to make mistakes'. A fallible mathematician is someone who is always making mistakes.

This joke is a play on the stereotype that mathematicians are often very serious and don't take care of their health. The mathematician in this joke is going to the doctor because he has a headache, which is a common symptom of stress.

Boastful means 'tending to boast or brag'. A boastful mathematician is someone who is always bragging about their mathematical abilities.

This joke is a play on the stereotype that mathematicians are often very logical and analytical. The mathematician in this joke is getting a divorce because they and their spouse can't agree on a solution to their problems.

Mischievous means 'causing or enjoying trouble or harm in a playful way'. A mischievous mathematician is someone who is always getting into trouble, but in a playful way.

This joke is a play on the stereotype that mathematicians are often very focused on their work and don't pay attention to anything else. The mathematician in this joke is getting fired from their job because they are always trying to solve math problems instead of doing their work.

Whiny means 'complaining in a petulant or demanding way'. A whiny mathematician is someone who is always complaining.

This joke is a play on the stereotype that mathematicians are often very focused on their work and don't pay attention to anything else. The mathematician in this joke is getting a speeding ticket because they are trying to solve a math problem while driving.

Forgetful means 'tending to forget things'. A forgetful mathematician is someone who is always losing their keys.

This joke is a play on the stereotype that mathematicians are often very focused on their work and don't pay attention to anything else. The mathematician in this joke is getting a sunburn because they are trying to solve a math problem in the sun.

Funny means 'causing laughter or amusement'. A funny mathematician is someone who is always making jokes.