laughter

noun

laugh·​ter ˈlaf-tər 

ˈläf-

1

: a sound of or as if of laughing

2

archaic : a cause of merriment

Synonyms

• chuckle
• giggle
• laugh
• snicker

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

Owners Damond Gallagher and Nora Yockey have curated an inviting space filled with things that spark laughter and bring a little joy to daily life—from greeting cards to key chains. —Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 9 Sep. 2025

The post quickly gained attention on the platform, drawing laughter from viewers charmed by the pet's adventurous spirit and unfazed attitude. —Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

Supported by her family, including her ride-or-die sister Carol (Johnston), Leanne learns to embrace the chaos and finds strength, laughter and hope in the most unexpected places. —Joe Otterson, Variety, 8 Sep. 2025

Supported by her family, including her ride-or-die sister Carol (Kristen Johnston), Leanne learns to embrace the chaos and finds strength, laughter and hope in the most unexpected places. —Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 8 Sep. 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