Laughs: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is laughing quietly or to themselves, often in a more subdued, gentle way.

• He chuckled softly at the clever play on words.
• Grandpa chuckles every time he tells that story.

Typically used for light, high-pitched laughs, often associated with being a bit silly or nervous. Often used to describe the laughter of children.

• The children giggled uncontrollably during the funny movie scene.
• She giggled nervously when asked about her secret.

Used when someone is expressing happiness with just a facial expression, showing their teeth or just curving their lips upwards.

• She smiled warmly at the compliment.
• His smile brightened up the entire room.

Use this word for general situations where someone is expressing joy or amusement with a sound. It can be used in both light-hearted and more intense situations.

• She laughs out loud at the funny joke.
• His laugh was contagious, making everyone around join in.

This word describes a quiet or suppressed laugh, often used in situations where someone finds something mildly amusing.

• He couldn't help but chuckle at the clever remark.
• She gave a little chuckle as she read the funny text message.

Giggle is typically used for a small, nervous, or silly laugh, often associated with children or when someone is feeling a bit giddy.

• The children giggled as they played hide and seek.
• She started to giggle uncontrollably during the serious meeting.

A smile is a facial expression showing happiness or friendliness and does not usually include a sound. It is often used when describing someone's friendliness or happiness without laughter.

• He greeted her with a warm smile.
• Her smile lit up the room.