mirth
UK: mɜːθ | US: mɜːrθ
n. amusement, especially as expressed in laughter
n. gladness or gaiety as shown by or accompanied with laughter
mirth = mir<joy> + th<noun suffix>
- mir<joy>: From Old English myrgþ (joy, pleasure), derived from Proto-Germanic murgiþō (joy, shortness), related to merry.
- th<noun suffix>: A nominal suffix forming abstract nouns from adjectives or verbs (e.g., strength, truth).
Etymology Origin:
The word mirth traces back to Old English myrgþ, blending the concept of joy (mir) with an abstract noun suffix (-th). Its Proto-Germanic root murgiþō suggests a link between joy and brevity (akin to "merry moments"). Over time, mirth narrowed to denote laughter-driven happiness, reflecting its association with lightheartedness.
The room echoed with mirth during the comedy show.
Her eyes sparkled with mirth as she told the joke.
Despite the rain, the festival was filled with mirth.
His sarcastic remark drew mirth from the audience.
Children’s mirth is often contagious.