Mirth
/mɜːrθ/noun
A feeling of great joy and amusement.
Did you know?In medieval times, mirth was often associated with feasting and celebrations that were believed to attract good fortune and blessings from the divine.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*mer-
“to die, to be dead; to be subject to death, which later evolved into notions of joy as a release from earthly suffering.”
Old English
Old English
myrth
“joy, pleasure, or delight, particularly in social contexts.”
Middle English
Middle English
mirth
“joyful or happy state, often linked to festivities and merriment.”
Modern English
English
mirth
“a state of amusement or joy, often expressed in laughter.”