funny
UK: ˈfʌni | US: ˈfʌni
adj. causing laughter or amusement; humorous
adj. strange or unusual, often in a way that is amusing or suspicious
n. (informal) jokes or humorous remarks
funny = fun<amusement> + y<adjective suffix>
- fun: Derived from Middle English fonnen (to fool or jest), evolving to mean lighthearted enjoyment.
- -y: A common English suffix forming adjectives (e.g., sunny, cloudy), indicating "characterized by."
Etymology Origin:
The word funny emerged in the 18th century, combining fun (itself rooted in playful deception) with the adjectival suffix -y. Initially meaning "humorous," it later expanded to describe oddity ("something’s funny here"). The suffix -y softens the root into a descriptive quality, mirroring patterns like happy (hap + y).
The comedian told a funny joke that made everyone laugh.
She gave him a funny look when he mentioned the missing cookies.
"What’s so funny?" he asked, noticing their giggles.
The situation felt funny—like something was being hidden.
His funny remarks lightened the mood at the meeting.