levity
UK: ˈlɛvɪti | US: ˈlɛvɪti
n. lightheartedness or lack of seriousness, especially when inappropriate
n. (archaic) lightness in weight
levity = lev<light> + ity<noun suffix>
- lev (from Latin levis, meaning "light" in weight or spirit)
- ity (a noun-forming suffix indicating state or quality, from Latin -itas)
Etymology Origin:
The word levity traces back to the Latin levitas, derived from levis ("light"). Originally, it referred to physical lightness (e.g., buoyancy) but evolved in English (16th century) to describe a figurative "lightness" of temperament—often implying frivolity or lack of gravity. The shift mirrors how weight metaphors (e.g., "heavy" for serious, "light" for trivial) permeate language.
Her levity during the solemn ceremony shocked the attendees.
The speaker’s levity eased the tension in the room.
Critics dismissed the film for its excessive levity on serious themes.
(Archaic) The levity of the feather made it float effortlessly.
He masked his nervousness with forced levity.