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

The reaction from the younger members of the family was immediate, complete hilarity. —Marta Martínez Tato, Vanity Fair, 3 Mar. 2026

Understanding the hilarity and nonsense of this comment can help understand why there is so much division in our country today. —Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Feb. 2026

Their guests will come in and … hilarity ensues, as to be expected, because the girls have a number of obstacles along the way. —Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 26 Feb. 2026

What Else…What Else…with Michael Cruz Kayne—Get ready for a unique blend of hilarity and introspection as Audible presents a live episode featuring the talented comedian Michael Cruz Kayne and special guest comedian, Chloe Radcliffe. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 25 Feb. 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