hilarity

noun

hi·​lar·​i·​ty hi-ˈler-ə-tē How to pronounce hilarity (audio)
hī-
: boisterous merriment or laughter

Examples of hilarity in a Sentence

My attempt to carve the turkey was a source of great hilarity at the dinner table. hilarity is the last thing you expect to find at a funeral, but we were there to celebrate his life rather than to dwell on his death
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
From creator and executive producer Bruce W. Smith and executive producer Ralph Farquhar, Season 3 finds Penny Proud and her loyal crew embarking on international escapades, wild adventures, and fantastical stops packed with hilarity, heart, and, most of all, discovery, per the logline. Denise Petski, Deadline, 3 July 2025 Covino, who also serves as director, and Marvin let their bodies flail around for maximum hilarity, and each new phase of their brawl includes another surprising, uproarious micro set piece. Esther Zuckerman, IndieWire, 19 May 2025 In this iconic film, Bill Murray’s character, Phil Connors, relives the same day over and over again with much hilarity. Michael Hicks, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025 All the while, the fans and the stars bring good tidings of cheer, joy and hilarity to festive events like carol-oke, holiday trivia challenges and Christmas competitions. Breanne L. Heldman, People.com, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for hilarity

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hilarity was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Hilarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hilarity. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

hilarity

noun
hi·​lar·​i·​ty hil-ˈar-ət-ē How to pronounce hilarity (audio)
-ˈer-;
hī-ˈlar-,
-ˈler-
: noisy fun

More from Merriam-Webster on hilarity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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