Chuckles Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chuckles

[หˆtสƒสŒk(ษ™)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

laughter

To laugh quietly or inwardly.

Synonyms

chortle, giggle, laugh.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chuckles

This word generally describes a soft, quiet laugh that is often associated with amusement or mild humor. It's less intense than a full laugh and can be used in casual, relaxed settings.

  • He chuckles at the joke his friend told.
  • She couldn't help but chuckle when she saw the funny cat video.
laugh

Laugh is a general term that covers any sound or expression of amusement. It can range from a soft chuckle to a loud guffaw and is appropriate in most contexts where something is genuinely funny.

  • He laughed out loud at the comedian's performance.
  • Everyone at the party was laughing at the funny story.
giggle

A giggle is a light, usually high-pitched laugh that is often associated with nervousness, silliness, or childlike amusement. It's common among children or in situations where someone is feeling shy or embarrassed.

  • The children giggled uncontrollably at the clown's antics.
  • She giggled nervously when he complimented her.
chortle

Chortle is a blend of 'chuckle' and 'snort', and it describes a gleeful, somewhat breathy laugh. It's usually used when someone finds something extremely funny or endearing.

  • The old man chortled at the clever pun.
  • She chortled with delight as the puppy played with the ball.

Examples of usage

  • He chuckled at the joke.
  • She couldn't help but chuckle at his funny antics.
Context #2 | Noun

laughter

A quiet or suppressed laugh.

Synonyms

chortle, giggle, laugh.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chuckles

This word is commonly used when referring to a quiet or gentle laugh, often in situations where a louder laugh might be inappropriate or overly enthusiastic.

  • She chuckles softly at the old man's joke
  • He can't help but chuckle at the cat's antics
laugh

This is a general term for expressing enjoyment or amusement, and can vary in intensity from a light chuckle to a hearty guffaw. It can be used in any situation where laughter is appropriate.

  • Everyone laughed at the comedianโ€™s jokes
  • He laughed out loud when he heard the surprising news
giggle

This term is typically used for a high-pitched, light-hearted laugh, often more spontaneous and less controlled. It is usually associated with children or situations that are particularly amusing or silly.

  • The girls giggled at the funny movie
  • She couldn't stop giggling during the class presentation
chortle

This word is often used to describe a laugh that is a mixture of a chuckle and a snort, usually connoting a sense of delight or amusement. It can sometimes carry a playful or joyful tone.

  • He chortled at his own clever remark
  • The children chortled with glee when they saw the clown

Examples of usage

  • She let out a chuckle at his witty remark.
  • His chuckles filled the room.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Laughter, including chuckles, releases endorphins, which are the body's feel-good chemicals.
  • Soft laughter can strengthen social bonds and create a sense of connection between people.
  • In studies, people who chuckle more often are perceived as more approachable and friendly.

Pop Culture

  • In many cartoons and movies, characters often chuckle when they are being sneaky or mischievous, adding humor to the scene.
  • Famous comedians often use chuckles to engage the audience, making their performances feel more personal.
  • The term is sometimes used in titles, such as 'Chuckles the Clown,' representing characters that bring joy and laughter.

Literature

  • Classic literature often uses chuckles to depict characters' emotions, indicating joy or amusement subtly.
  • Chuckle is a common onomatopoeia in poetry and children's books to illustrate soft laughter and create a lighthearted tone.
  • Authors use chuckles in dialogue to add warmth to characters and show their lighter side.

Communication

  • Chucikng is often a non-verbal cue that indicates amusement without the need for words, enhancing interpersonal communication.
  • In social interactions, chuckling can ease tension and prompt more relaxed conversations.
  • The sound can signal to others that the speaker is friendly and receptive during conversations.

Origin of 'chuckles'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chuckle' comes from a combination of the Middle English 'chokkes' and similar sounds that suggest soft laughter.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the 16th century, reflecting a less boisterous form of amusement.
  • Chuckle refers to a specific kind of laughter that is more subdued than a full-on guffaw.

The word 'chuckles' originated from Middle English 'chukelen', which meant to cluck or chuck. Over time, it evolved to represent a quiet or suppressed laugh. The verb form of 'chuckles' first appeared in the 16th century, while the noun form followed later. The word has remained popular due to its onomatopoeic nature, capturing the sound of a soft or muffled laugh.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,638, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.