Mirth: meaning, definitions and examples

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mirth

 

[mษ™หฮธ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

feeling

Mirth is a feeling of great happiness and joy. It is often accompanied by laughter and a sense of light-heartedness.

Synonyms

glee, happiness, joy, merriment.

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Word Description / Examples
mirth

Mirth is often used in literary or formal contexts to describe a deep, often shared, amusement or laughter.

  • The room was filled with mirth as the comedian delivered his punchline
happiness

Happiness is a general term for a state of well-being and contentment. It can be used in most contexts without being overly formal or informal.

  • She found happiness in her daily walks and spending time with her family
joy

Joy implies a deep, often spiritual, sense of happiness and contentment. It's usually more profound than mere happiness.

  • She was overwhelmed with joy when she saw her newborn baby for the first time
glee

Glee suggests a high-spirited joy or delight, often with a sense of excitement and sometimes with a dose of childishness.

  • Children shouted with glee as they played in the park
merriment

Merriment is used to describe a fun, lively atmosphere often associated with social gatherings or parties.

  • The sound of merriment filled the hall as guests danced and laughed through the night

Examples of usage

  • She couldn't contain her mirth when she heard the joke.
  • His eyes sparkled with mirth as he recounted the funny story.
  • The room was filled with mirth and laughter as everyone enjoyed themselves.
Context #2 | Noun

entertainment

Mirth can also refer to amusement or entertainment, especially in the form of laughter and fun.

Synonyms

amusement, entertainment, fun, laughter.

Examples of usage

  • The comedy show provided hours of mirth for the audience.
  • We all need a bit of mirth in our lives to lighten the mood.
  • The children's playful antics brought mirth to the entire family.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'myrth', which means joy or pleasure.
  • It has roots in the Proto-Germanic language, where it was related to being merry or delighted.
  • Historically, the term was often associated with merrymaking and celebrations in various cultures.

Literature

  • Mirth frequently appears in Shakespeare's works, often associated with comic relief and the joyful aspects of human nature.
  • In many classic novels, mirth is depicted as a vital element of social gatherings and feasts, emphasizing the importance of joy in community life.
  • The juxtaposition of mirth and sorrow is a common theme in literature, highlighting the complexity of human emotions.

Psychology

  • Psychologists note that laughter, an expression of mirth, has numerous benefits, including reducing stress and enhancing mood.
  • Mirthful experiences are linked to a sense of belonging and can strengthen relationships between people.
  • Research shows that engaging in mirthful activities, like watching comedies or playing games, can improve one's overall mental well-being.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have festivals or events centered around mirth, such as Carnival in Brazil, where dancing and laughter are key.
  • Mirth is celebrated globally during holidays, where families come together to enjoy food, stories, and laughter.
  • In some traditions, mirth is seen as a way to honor the past โ€” by laughing and enjoying life, we remember those who have come before us.

Pop Culture

  • Animated movies often feature characters that embody mirth, showing that joy and humor are universal themes that resonate with audiences.
  • Stand-up comedy has its roots in mirth, as performers use laughter to entertain and connect with their audience through shared joy.
  • Many pop songs celebrate themes of joy and happiness, encapsulating the essence of mirth in their lyrics and rhythms.

Translations

Translations of the word "mirth" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น alegria

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคนเคฐเฅเคท

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Frรถhlichkeit

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kegembiraan

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั€ะฐะดั–ัั‚ัŒ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ radoล›ฤ‡

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅ–œใณ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท joie

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ alegrรญa

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท neลŸe

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๊ธฐ์จ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุจู‡ุฌุฉ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ radost

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ radosลฅ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆฌขไน

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ veselje

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ gleรฐi

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ า›ัƒะฐะฝั‹ัˆ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒ˜แƒฎแƒแƒ แƒฃแƒšแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ลŸษ™nlik

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ alegrรญa

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,481, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.