laughter

noun

laugh·​ter ˈlaf-tər 

ˈläf-

1

: a sound of or as if of laughing

2

archaic : a cause of merriment

Synonyms

• belly laugh
• boff
• boffo
• boffola
• cachinnation
• cackle
• chortle
• chuckle
• giggle
• guffaw
• hee-haw
• horselaugh
• laugh
• snicker
• snigger
• titter
• twitter

Examples of laughter in a Sentence

The audience roared with laughter.

the nervous producers were reassured by the sounds of laughter coming from the theater

Recent Examples on the Web

But as Sharpe went on to explain, the laughter that was coming from his Southwestern teammates that day ceased immediately after he was given an opportunity to perform on the practice field. —Scott Talley, Detroit Free Press, 22 Dec. 2024

If there's laughter in the moment, take another beat. —Sari Hitchins, Parents, 19 Dec. 2024

Shared laughter, empathy, and connection can be deeply restorative. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 17 Dec. 2024

There was little laughter before the game by the Molineux subway — a traditional route from Wolverhampton city centre to the stadium, where supporters congregate and opinions are exchanged. —Steve Madeley, The Athletic, 15 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English hleahtor; akin to Old English hliehhan

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing laughter

• erupt in laughter
• fit of laughter
• howl with laughter
• laughter lines

Kids Definition

laughter

noun

laugh·​ter ˈlaf-tər 

ˈlȧf-

: the action or sound of laughing