Chuckled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
😄
chuckled
[ˈtʃʌ.kəld ]
Definition
laughter sound
To chuckle is to laugh softly or quietly, usually in response to something amusing. It is often a gentle expression of humor, indicating enjoyment or appreciation of a light-hearted moment.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She chuckled at the funny joke her friend told.
- He couldn't help but chuckle when he saw the kitten playing.
- The audience chuckled at the comedian's clever remarks.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Laughter, including chuckling, releases endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals.
- Chuckling can create social bonding; people often chuckle together, reinforcing friendship and connection.
Literature
- Chuckles often appear in literature as a way to convey a character's amusement, creating a light, playful tone.
- Authors like Charles Dickens used chuckles in dialogues to illustrate wit and humor among characters.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, chuckling is a subtle form of humor that conveys enjoyment without being too loud or disruptive.
- The act of chuckling can signify politeness or restraint in social settings, as opposed to outright laughter.
Pop Culture
- Popular sitcoms often include chuckling as a sound effect during funny moments, shaping our perception of humor.
- Chuckle as a verb has been playfully used in comedy routines, emphasizing the joy of shared laughing experiences.
Origin of 'chuckled'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'chuckle' comes from the Middle English word 'chuchlen' which meant to laugh quietly.
- It has roots in the older word 'chokel,' which is related to making soft sounds.
The word 'chuckled' originates from Middle English 'ckelchen,' which means 'to chuckle or to make a sound of mirth.' This term is believed to be imitative in nature, reflecting the soft, breathy sound associated with this kind of laughter. The root word 'chuckle' can be traced back further to old dialects and the influence of regional pronunciations. Its modern usage has become more widespread in English literature and conversation since the 18th century, when light laughter and expressions of amusement began to be cherished in both spoken and written forms of communication. Today, 'chuckled' is commonly used to describe a gentle but unmistakable reaction of joy or amusement.