Laugh

Definition

Laugh is both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to make spontaneous sounds and movements of the face and body as a reaction to humor or amusement. As a noun, it refers to the act or sound of laughing.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /læf/
• Respelling: LAF

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɑːf/
• Respelling: LAAF

Etymology

The word "laugh" originates from the Old English "hlæhhan," which is related to Old Norse "hlæja" and German "lachen," all meaning "to laugh." Its roots are in Proto-Germanic "*hlahjaną," ultimately tracing back to Proto-Indo-European "*klak-," meaning "to laugh or shout."

Derivatives

• Laughter (noun)
• Laughable (adjective)
• Laughingstock (noun)
• Laughingly (adverb)
• Laugh-out-loud (adjective/phrase)

Synonyms

• Chuckle
• Giggle
• Chortle

Antonyms

• Cry
• Weep
• None

Usage

The term "laugh" is widely used in various contexts to denote amusement or reaction to humor. For example, "They laughed at the joke" indicates a response to humor, while "His laugh was infectious" refers to the sound of laughing. The word is also used metaphorically, such as in "It’s no laugh being stuck in traffic."

Related Terms

• Smile: A facial expression of happiness or amusement.
• Humor: The quality of being amusing or entertaining.
• Amusement: A feeling of enjoyment or pleasure.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To make spontaneous sounds and movements as a reaction to humor or amusement: Refers to the physical and vocal response to something funny.
  • Example: "The audience laughed at the comedian's joke."
• To express joy or mirth: Refers to laughing as an expression of happiness.
  • Example: "She laughed when she saw the surprise."

Noun

• The act or sound of laughing: Refers to the audible reaction to humor or amusement.
  • Example: "Her laugh echoed through the room."
• A cause or source of laughter: Refers to something amusing or funny.
  • Example: "The movie was a good laugh."