laughter
UK: ˈlɑːftə | US: ˈlæftər
n. the act or sound of laughing; an expression of amusement or joy
n. a light, happy quality or feeling associated with laughter
The word "laughter" originates from Old English hleahtor, derived from the Proto-Germanic hlahtraz, which is tied to the verb "laugh." The root hleh- (to laugh) is imitative, reflecting the sound of laughter itself. Over time, the suffix -ter (or -tor in Old English) was added to form a noun denoting the action or result of laughing. This evolution highlights how laughter is both a vocal expression and an abstract concept tied to joy.
Her contagious laughter filled the room.
The comedy show was met with roaring laughter.
There was a hint of nervous laughter in his voice.
Children’s laughter echoed in the playground.
He tried to suppress his laughter during the serious meeting.