Titter: meaning, definitions and examples

😬

Add to dictionary

titter

[ ˈtɪtər ]

Verb / Noun

^{Context #1 | Verb}

social media

To laugh in a nervous or restrained way, often as a result of feeling awkward or uncomfortable.

Synonyms

chuckle, giggle, snicker.

Examples of usage

She couldn't help but titter nervously during the awkward silence.
His jokes always make her titter.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

social media

A nervous or restrained laugh, often in response to something awkward or uncomfortable.

Synonyms

chuckle, giggle, snicker.

Examples of usage

She let out a little titter at his clumsy attempt to flirt.
The audience responded with titters rather than outright laughter.

Translations

Translations of the word "titter" in other languages:

🇵🇹 risadinha

🇮🇳 मुस्कराहट

🇩🇪 kichern

🇮🇩 terkikik

🇺🇦 хихотіння

🇵🇱 chichot

🇯🇵 くすくす笑う

🇫🇷 gloussement

🇪🇸 risita

🇹🇷 kıkırdama

🇰🇷 낄낄거리다

🇸🇦 قهقهة

🇨🇿 chichotání

🇸🇰 chichotanie

🇨🇳 咯咯笑

🇸🇮 hihitanje

🇮🇸 hlátur

🇰🇿 сықылықтау

🇬🇪 ხითხითი

🇦🇿 xırda gülüş

🇲🇽 risita

Etymology

The word 'titter' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Middle English word 'titiren', which meant to giggle or laugh in a suppressed manner. It is believed to be an onomatopoeic word, imitating the sound of a light, nervous laugh. Over the years, 'titter' has maintained its association with restrained or nervous laughter, particularly in response to awkward or uncomfortable situations.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,714 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
33711 seismically
33712 audaciously
33713 fluoridated
33714 titter
33715 epaulettes
33716 electrify
33717 trafficker
...