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Laughing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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laughing

[ˈlæfɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

expressing joy

Laughing is the action of producing spontaneous sounds and movements of the face and body that express happiness, humor, or joy. It often occurs in response to something funny or amusing. Laughter can be contagious and is a common social behavior that strengthens bonds between individuals. Additionally, laughing has been associated with health benefits, including stress relief and improved mood.

Synonyms

cackle, chuckle, giggle, snicker.

Examples of usage

  • She couldn't stop laughing at the comedian's jokes.
  • The children were laughing as they played together in the park.
  • He made her laugh for the first time in weeks.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Laughter triggers the body's release of endorphins, our natural feel-good chemicals, promoting an overall sense of well-being.
  • It can be a powerful social tool, helping to strengthen bonds between people and reduce tension in stressful situations.
  • Studies show children laugh about 300 times a day, while adults laugh only about 20 times, illustrating how laughter tends to diminish with age.

Pop Culture

  • Laughter is often featured in film and comedy as a sign of joy or relief, making it a key element in many popular sitcoms.
  • Famous comedians have popularized laughter through stand-up routines, creating memorable catchphrases that resonate with audiences.
  • Various viral videos showcasing laughter, such as 'laughing baby' clips, have become internet sensations, spreading joy globally.

Science

  • Research shows that laughter can improve immune function and increase pain tolerance, making it an important aspect of health.
  • Studies using brain imaging have found that laughter activates regions associated with social interactions and cognitive functions.
  • Laughter yoga is a wellness practice that combines laughter exercises with yogic breathing, aimed at improving physical and mental health.

Literature

  • Authors often use humor and laughter in literature to explore complex themes, inviting readers to engage with serious topics more lightly.
  • Classic tales, like those of Shakespeare, often feature laughter as a device for revealing character traits or societal norms.
  • Laughter is frequently portrayed as a symbol of freedom and rebellion in literature, contrasting with despair or seriousness.

Origin of 'laughing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'laugh' comes from the Old English 'hlaeccan,' which meant to 'make a sound of joy.'
  • Many languages have their own unique words or sounds for laughing, highlighting how universal laughter is across cultures.
  • In some dialects, 'laughing' can be creatively spelled as 'lol,' which stands for laughter in online conversations.

The word 'laugh' has its origins in Old English 'hlahhan', which is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Old High German 'lachen' and the Dutch 'lachen'. These terms trace back to the Proto-Germanic *hlahhōną, which closely correlates to the sounds made when one laughs. Over centuries, the term evolved, mirroring the physical act of laughter itself, transforming to encompass the various nuances of this universal expression of joy. 'Laughing' as a gerund or participle has developed as the action form of 'laugh', emphasizing the dynamic aspect of the act. The global significance of laughter is reflected in many cultures, where it serves not just as an emotional release but as a means of social bonding and communication.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,117 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.