Pronunciation

/laːf/

Definitions

• Noun: A spontaneous expression of mirth, amusement, joy, or pleasure; the act of laughing. For example: “The sound of children’s laughter filled the air.”
• Verb: (intransitive) To express mirth, amusement, joy, or pleasure by producing a series of sounds from the mouth, typically characterized by involuntary contractions of the diaphragm and other muscles. For example: “She laughed heartily at the joke.”
• Verb: (transitive) To cause (someone) to laugh; to amuse greatly. For example: “The comedian’s jokes had us all laughing throughout the show.”

Phrases

• “Laugh it off”: To react to something unpleasant or embarrassing with humor instead of getting upset. Example: “After tripping on stage, he managed to laugh it off.”
• “Have the last laugh”: To be ultimately successful or victorious after others have doubted or mocked one’s chances. Example: “Despite initial setbacks, she had the last laugh when her business became highly profitable.”
• “Laughter is the best medicine”: A proverb suggesting that humor can help alleviate stress or improve mood during difficult times.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “Her infectious laughter was contagious among her friends.”
• Verb (intransitive): “They laughed so hard their sides began to ache.”
• Verb (transitive): “The clown’s antics made the kids laugh uncontrollably.”

Synonyms

• Chuckle
• Giggle
• Snicker
• Chortle
• Cackle
• Guffaw
• Roar (with laughter)
• Beam (with delight)