hilarity

noun

hi·​lar·​i·​ty hi-ˈler-ə-tē 

hī-

: boisterous merriment or laughter

Synonyms of hilarity

• glee
• cheerfulness
• merriness
• festivity
• cheer

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

As the guests attempt to keep up appearances, the celebrations descend into a day of calamity, hilarity and unexpected connections. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 2 Nov. 2026

There’s relatable hilarity to his embarrassing battle with no-touch appliances in an airport restroom. — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 29 Oct. 2026

There's a comedy club right next door for a night of hilarity with top-drawer talent and occasional special guests. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

Laura Benanti, one of today’s musical comedy all-stars, understands that human fallibility is at the root of genuine hilarity. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hilarity

• alterity
• asperity
• austerity
• celerity
• dexterity
• disparity
• molarity
• planarity
• polarity
• posterity
• prosperity
• severity

Kids Definition

hilarity

noun

hi·​lar·​i·​ty hil-ˈar-ət-ē 

-ˈer-;

hī-ˈlar-, 

-ˈler-

: noisy fun