laughter

word · lemma: laugh

/ˈɫæftɝ/
LAF-tur
/lˈɑːftɐ/
LAHF-tuh

Definition

The sounds and expression people make when they laugh. It can also refer more generally to a happy, amused atmosphere full of laughing.

Usage & Nuances

Usually uncountable when talking about the general sound or presence of laughing: 'Her laughter filled the room.' It often appears in phrases like 'burst into laughter' and 'roar with laughter'. 'Laugh' is the verb; 'laughter' is the noun.

Example Sentences

The joke caused a lot of laughter.

basic

The children's laughter came from the garden.

basic

Her laughter made me smile.

basic

We heard laughter from the next room and knew the party had started.

natural

His nervous laughter made the situation even more awkward.

natural

The whole table burst into laughter when she told the story.

natural