Snigger: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone is laughing quietly, often in a rude or disrespectful way. It has a negative connotation.

• They sniggered at his awkward attempt to dance.
• The children sniggered behind their hands as the teacher tripped.

This word is used when someone is showing contempt by smiling or speaking in a way that indicates they think they are better than others. It has a negative connotation.

• She sneered at his proposal, thinking it ridiculous.
• He gave a sneer of disdain during the debate.

This word is used when someone is laughing quietly, often in a way that implies a hidden agenda or secret delight. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• The teenagers snickered at the inside joke.
• He couldn't help but snicker at the small mistake.

This word is used when someone is making fun of another person in a cruel or hurtful way, often by imitating them. It has a negative connotation.

• He mocked his friend's accent, much to everyone's discomfort.
• The group mocked her for her unique fashion sense.

Typical in British English, this word often implies a covert or disrespectful laughter. It can have a somewhat negative connotation, suggesting that the person is mocking or ridiculing someone.

• He tried to give a serious speech, but some people in the back couldn't help but snigger
• They sniggered at his outdated fashion sense

Similar to 'snigger' but more prevalent in American English. It implies a stifled, often disrespectful laugh, usually at someone else's expense.

• The students snickered when the teacher made a mistake
• She tried to hold back a snicker as the cat failed its jump

Used to convey a light, silly, and often high-pitched laughter, commonly associated with children or expressions of nervousness or excitement.

• The children started to giggle during the clown's performance
• She giggled nervously when asked an unexpected question

Used to describe a quiet or gentle laughter, often in response to something amusing but not overly hilarious. It's commonly used in a neutral or positive context.

• She chuckled at the funny story
• He let out a chuckle when he saw the playful puppy