laughter

noun

laugh·​ter ˈlaf-tər 

ˈläf-

1

: a sound of or as if of laughing

2

archaic : a cause of merriment

Synonyms

• belly laugh
• boff
• boffo
• boffola
• cachinnation
• cackle
• chortle
• chuckle
• giggle
• guffaw
• hee-haw
• horselaugh
• laugh
• snicker
• snigger
• titter
• twitter

Examples of laughter in a Sentence

The audience roared with laughter.

the nervous producers were reassured by the sounds of laughter coming from the theater

Recent Examples on the Web

June 1, 2025 Thank you for all the laughter, heart, and unforgettable moments. —Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 June 2025

The 78-year-old rock star asked fans for their best caption for the bit that may leave audience members dying with laughter Iggy is currently touring in Europe, North America and South America Iggy Pop knows how to make an exit. —Marina Watts, People.com, 2 June 2025

Nikolas was a cherished husband, son, brother, grandson, uncle, and nephew whose warmth, laughter, and love touched the lives of all who knew him. —Mya Abraham, VIBE.com, 2 June 2025

As Sheets walked in with the trainers and Shildt, there were more smiles and laughter. —Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English hleahtor; akin to Old English hliehhan

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing laughter

• erupt in laughter
• fit of laughter
• howl with laughter
• laughter lines

Rhymes for laughter

• after
• drafter
• rafter
• hereafter
• thereafter
• hereinafter
• thereinafter

Kids Definition

laughter

noun

laugh·​ter ˈlaf-tər 

ˈlȧf-

: the action or sound of laughing