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Funniest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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funniest

[หˆfสŒn.i.ษ™st ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

comedic quality

The term 'funniest' is the superlative form of the adjective 'funny', which describes something that induces laughter or amusement. It is used to indicate that a particular joke, story, or situation is more amusing than all others in comparison. 'Funniest' is often used in contests or discussions about humor where different examples of comedy are compared. It highlights the extremity of humor, suggesting that it surpasses all others in making people laugh.

Synonyms

amusing, comical, frivolous, hilarious, laughable.

Examples of usage

  • He told the funniest joke at the party.
  • That was the funniest movie I've ever seen.
  • She always has the funniest stories to share.
  • He's known for being the funniest person in our group.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The title 'Funniest Person in the World' is awarded annually in a comedy competition by The Funniest Person in the World Contest.
  • Various TV shows and movies often use 'funniest' in titles to attract viewers with the promise of laughs, such as 'The Funniest Home Videos.'
  • Social media platforms regularly highlight funny content, leading to viral trends that often claim to be 'the funniest ever.'

Psychology

  • Laughter, often triggered by funny moments, releases endorphins, which help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
  • Studies suggest that humor, especially what people find 'funniest,' can vary widely based on cultural backgrounds and life experiences.
  • Being perceived as funny can enhance social bonds and friendships, creating a positive atmosphere among groups.

History

  • Ancient Rome had a rich comedic tradition, with playwrights like Plautus and Terence showcasing the funny aspects of daily life.
  • In the 19th century, the 'funny pages' became a popular element of American newspapers, featuring cartoons and humor.

Literature

  • Mark Twain, known for his humor, once claimed that 'the secret of getting ahead is getting started,' mixing wisdom with a funny twist.
  • P.G. Wodehouse is celebrated for his comedic novels and characters, often termed as some of the funniest in English literature.

Origin of 'funniest'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'funny' originates from the Late Middle English term 'fonny,' which meant 'foolish' or 'strange.'
  • It evolved from the Old English 'fon,' meaning to be foolish, showing how humor has historical ties to silliness.
  • 'Funniest' is the superlative form of 'funny,' indicating that something is the peak of humor.

The word 'funny' derived from the 18th-century English word 'fonny', which itself originated from the dialect 'fon', meaning 'to cheat or play tricks'. Over time, 'funny' evolved in English to mean something that incites laughter or is comical. The addition of the superlative form 'funniest' demonstrates the comparative nature of humor, indicating that one instance of humor can outshine others. The evolution reflects the cultural importance of humor and laughter in society, with a significant emphasis placed on what people find amusing over time. Notably, humor often varies between cultures, but the term 'funniest' remains universally relatable as it signifies an extreme in comedic value.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,588, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.