levity

noun

lev·​i·​ty ˈle-və-tē 

1

: excessive or unseemly frivolity

She would tolerate no levity in the classroom.

2

: lack of steadiness : changeableness

… the levity … of the brisk fire.

—Charles Dickens

Did you know?

Levity Was Once a Scientific Term

Levity originally was thought to be a physical force exactly like gravity but pulling in the opposite direction, like the helium in a balloon. As recently as the 19th century, scientists were still arguing about its existence. Today levity refers only to lightness in manner. To stern believers of some religious faiths, levity is often regarded as almost sinful. But the word, like its synonym frivolity, now has an old-fashioned ring to it and is usually used only half-seriously.

Synonyms of levity

• lightness
• cheerfulness
• glee
• silliness
• frivolity
• flippancy

Examples of levity in a Sentence

They managed to find some levity in the situation.

the teachers disapprove of any displays of levity during school assemblies

Recent Examples on the Web

But there was a tenderness to it and a levity and humor. —Emily Zemler, Los Angeles Times, 4 Feb. 2026

However, to see a Black man speak out unapologetically — Foxx's tendency to freestyle and deliver iconic one-liners brought levity to the proceedings — is part of what made Sanford and Son a hit. —Starr Rocque, PEOPLE, 3 Feb. 2026

Or maybe levity helps the relationship more than anyone would admit. —Jerry Brewer, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026

The balance of sincerity and levity continued throughout the night. —Lily Moayeri, Rolling Stone, 29 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin levitat-, levitas, from levis light in weight — more at light entry 4

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for levity

• brevity
• longevity

Kids Definition

levity

noun

lev·​i·​ty ˈlev-ət-ē 

plural levities

: a lack of seriousness often at an improper time : frivolity