Laughter: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for the act of laughing, suitable for any situation where people find something funny.

• The room was filled with laughter during the comedy show.
• Her laughter was contagious, making everyone around her smile.

Indicates a quiet or restrained laugh, often in response to something mildly amusing or a private joke.

• He chuckled softly at the clever joke.
• She couldn't help but chuckle when reading the funny text message.

Describes a light, silly, and often repetitive laugh, usually associated with children or someone being playfully amused.

• The children giggled uncontrollably during the puppet show.
• She giggled nervously when he asked for her phone number.

Used to describe a loud, harsh, and often high-pitched laugh. It can have a negative connotation, suggesting the person laughing is being mean or witch-like.

• The witch in the fairytale cackled as she cast her spell.
• He cackled evilly after pulling the prank.

Implies a quiet, often sneaky or mocking laugh, usually at someone else's expense. It has a negative connotation.

• They snickered behind his back when he made the mistake.
• She tried to snicker quietly so that the teacher wouldn't hear.

This is used to describe the sound people make when they find something very funny or amusing. It’s common in casual or joyful settings.

• Her laughter filled the room after hearing the joke.
• The comedian's performance was met with abundant laughter.

This is a general term for the facial expression where the corners of the mouth turn up. It can express happiness, friendliness, or politeness.

• She smiled at the compliment she received.
• A smile spread across his face as he greeted his old friend.

This refers to a wide smile that shows teeth. It can indicate happiness, amusement, or even a bit of mischief.

• He had a big grin on his face after winning the game.
• She grinned when she saw her friend’s surprise.

This typically refers to a broad and warm smile, often showing happiness and pride. It’s more intense and radiant than a simple smile.

• She beamed with pride as she accepted the award.
• The children beamed when they saw their new toys.

This word is used to describe a gleeful, breathy laugh, often mixed with a snort. It’s usually heard in friendly or slightly mischievous situations.

• He chortled at the unexpected turn of events in the story.
• She couldn't help but chortle when she saw the funny meme.

Used when talking about the physical act of laughing or the sound it produces, often in reaction to something funny or joyful.

• The children's laughter filled the room
• Her joke brought a lot of laughter to the party

Refers to the quality of being amusing or funny, often in relation to someone's ability to make others laugh through thoughts, words, or actions.

• His sense of humor is one of his best qualities
• The book is filled with witty humor

Describes a feeling of enjoyment or pleasure derived from something entertaining or funny. It can also refer to activities meant to entertain.

• He watched the clown with great amusement
• The amusement park was full of exhilarating rides

Refers to a genre of entertainment, such as movies, television, or theater, that aims to make people laugh through its storyline and characters.

• We watched a hilarious comedy last night
• She enjoys stand-up comedy shows

A general term used to describe activities that bring joy and enjoyment. It can be used broadly in various contexts involving entertainment and pleasure.

• We had so much fun at the fair
• Playing board games with friends is always fun