Giggle: meaning, definitions and examples

😂

Add to dictionary

giggle

[ˈɡɪɡ(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

laughter

To laugh in a nervous or silly way, often making short, high sounds in your throat.

Synonyms

chuckle, snicker, titter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
giggle	Use in situations where laughter is light, high-pitched, and often involves a sense of fun or playfulness. Usually associated with children or when someone is being tickled. The children couldn't stop giggling during the puppet show. She giggled when he whispered a joke in her ear.
chuckle	Appropriate for situations where the laughter is quiet and restrained, often expressing mild amusement or satisfaction. Typically used for more mature or subtle humor. He chuckled at the clever punchline of the joke. The grandpa chuckled softly at his grandchild's antics.
snicker	This word is often used when the laughter is partly suppressed and can have a mocking or mean-spirited undertone. Appropriate in contexts where someone is laughing at another's expense or behind their back. They snickered when they saw their classmate trip over his shoelaces. The group snickered as they read the prank note.
titter	This word describes a short, nervous, or suppressed kind of laughter, often in formal or slightly uncomfortable situations. The audience tittered awkwardly at the comedian's inappropriate joke. She couldn't help but titter when she accidentally spilled her drink at the formal dinner.

Examples of usage

The children giggled at the clown's funny face.
She couldn't help but giggle at his cheesy jokes.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

laughter

A light, silly laugh.

Synonyms

chuckle, snicker, titter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
giggle	Use this word for a light, silly laugh that is often high-pitched. It's usually in response to something funny or slightly embarrassing. She couldn't help but giggle when he made a funny face. The children giggled as they told each other jokes.
chuckle	This word is appropriate for a quiet or restrained laugh, often to oneself, in response to something amusing. He chuckled quietly at the amusing situation. She chuckled to herself as she read the humorous story.
snicker	Typically used for a half-suppressed laugh, often disrespectful or mocking in nature. It carries a negative connotation. The students snickered when the teacher made a mistake. He tried to hide his snicker when his friend tripped.
titter	A nervous or quiet laugh, often in a group, that can indicate embarrassment or amusement. It is less loud than a giggle. The attendees began to titter when the speaker made a joke. She let out a titter when she was asked an awkward question.

Examples of usage

She let out a giggle when he tickled her.
The giggle of the baby filled the room.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Middle English 'giglen', meaning to laugh excitedly.
It has roots in the Old Norse 'giggja', which also means to laugh or chuckle.
Usage in English was first recorded in the late 14th century.

Psychology

Giggles often happen as a social bonding mechanism, creating positive feelings among friends.
Laughter, including giggling, releases endorphins, which are chemicals that make us feel good.
Children often giggle as a way to communicate joy and playfulness before they can fully express themselves with words.

Pop Culture

In movies, giggling often signals a character's innocence, playfulness, or mischievous behavior.
Classic cartoon characters like Minnie Mouse are frequently depicted giggling, enhancing their charm.
Several popular songs and shows incorporate giggling to convey humor and lightheartedness.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, giggling is associated with children and their carefree nature, symbolizing joy and innocence.
Japanese culture diminishes loud laughter, favoring softer giggles that reflect modesty and elegance.
In Western societies, giggling can indicate nervousness or embarrassment, often breaking tension in social situations.

Science

Studies show that giggling can boost immunity and help reduce stress, contributing to overall well-being.
The brain recognizes giggles as signals of joy, activating reward areas and promoting a sense of happiness.
Research indicates that women tend to giggle more than men, reflecting different social communication styles.

Translations

Translations of the word "giggle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 risadinha

🇮🇳 दबी हँसी

🇩🇪 kichern

🇮🇩 cekikikan

🇺🇦 хихотіти

🇵🇱 chichotać

🇯🇵 くすくす笑う (kusukusu warau)

🇫🇷 glousser

🇪🇸 risita

🇹🇷 kıkırdamak

🇰🇷 낄낄거리다 (kkilkkilgeorida)

🇸🇦 ضحكة خافتة (dahka khafita)

🇨🇿 chichotat

🇸🇰 chichotať sa

🇨🇳 咯咯笑 (gēgē xiào)

🇸🇮 hihitati

🇮🇸 hlæja lágum

🇰🇿 сықылықтау

🇬🇪 ხითხითი (khitkhiti)

🇦🇿 zəif gülüş

🇲🇽 risita

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,875, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19872 dentition
19873 pry
19874 bravest
19875 giggle
19876 unevenly
19877 bumping
19878 quarried
...