laughter

noun

laugh·​ter ˈlaf-tər How to pronounce laughter (audio)
ˈläf-
1
: a sound of or as if of laughing
2
archaic : a cause of merriment

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Expect laughter, reflection, and real talk that inspires. Essence, 6 July 2025 After all, if laughter weren’t the most sacred byproduct of going to the movies, then Nicole Kidman wouldn’t have listed it first. David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 3 July 2025 The remark by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jefferies to fellow New York Rep. Elise Stefanik sparked laughter and several surprised reactions from other Democrats seated in the chamber. Jackson Walker, Baltimore Sun, 3 July 2025 One older study found that laughter can burn up to 1.5 calories per minute. Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for laughter

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of laughter was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Laughter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laughter. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

laughter

noun
laugh·​ter ˈlaf-tər How to pronounce laughter (audio)
ˈlȧf-
: the action or sound of laughing

More from Merriam-Webster on laughter

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