Laughter
/ˈlæf.tɚ/noun
The physical reaction of the body to humor or joy, often characterized by rhythmic, vocalized, and involuntary sounds.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, laughter was often seen as a divine gift, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ḱleh₁-
“to call out or make a sound, often in joy or distress.”
Old English
OE
laeþ
“a sound of joy or mirth, indicating happiness.”
Middle English
ME
laughter
“the act of laughing; a joyful sound made in response to humor.”
14th Century
Middle English
laughter
“a vocal expression of amusement, often seen as a communal experience.”
Modern English
English
laughter
“the sound made when one finds something funny, a universal sign of joy.”