Humored: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'humor' originates from the Latin word 'humor,' meaning fluid, which led to a historical connection between body fluids and moods.
• It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially referring to bodily fluids thought to affect temperament.
• By the 17th century, 'humor' began to shift towards meaning a person's disposition or character, specifically their capacity to appreciate the funny.

Psychology

• Research shows that humor can act as a coping mechanism during stressful situations, helping people deal with anxiety and fear.
• An understanding of humor is linked to social intelligence; people who get jokes often read social cues better.
• Laughter releases endorphins, which can enhance mood and improve overall well-being.

Pop Culture

• Comedy television shows have exploded in popularity, showcasing humor in daily life, with shows like 'Friends' and 'The Office' gaining massive followings.
• Stand-up comedy has become a prominent form of entertainment, with comedians using humor to address social issues and share personal experiences.
• The world-famous comic strip 'Peanuts,' created by Charles Schulz, features characters like Charlie Brown and Snoopy that explore the lighter side of everyday life.

Literature

• Humor is a powerful storytelling tool, evident in works from Mark Twain's witty social commentary to Jane Austen's humorous observations of 19th-century society.
• Satire, a genre combining humor and criticism, features strongly in literature, allowing authors to comment on politics and social issues, exemplified by Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal.'
• In children's literature, humor often plays a key role in engaging young readers, seen in works like Roald Dahl’s 'The BFG' and 'Matilda.'

Cultural Perspectives

• Different cultures have unique humor styles; for example, British humor often relies on irony and dry wit, while American humor favors more direct and slapstick approaches.
• Physical comedy, such as clowning or mime, transcends language barriers, illustrating how body language can evoke laughter across cultures.
• Humor serves as a bonding tool in many societies, often utilized in rituals and celebrations to create camaraderie and shared experiences.

At rank #27,342, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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