Laughter

views updated May 17 2018

238. Laughter

See also 213. HUMOR .

Abderian
relating to foolish or excessive laughter. [Allusion to Democritus, the laughing philosopher, born in Abdero.]
cachinnation
raucous laughter; loud whinnying.
geloscopy, gelotoscopy
a form of divination that determines a persons character or future from the way he laughs.
jocundity
the quality or condition of being merry or cheerful. jocund , adj.
katagelophobia
an abnormal fear or dislike of ridicule.
risibility
1. the ability or disposition to laugh.
2. a humorous awareness of the ridiculous and absurd.
3. laughter.

Laughter

views updated Jun 08 2018

402. Laughter

  1. Democritus (c. 460c. 370 B.C.) the laughing philosopher. [Gk. Phil.: Jobes, 430]
  2. hyena rapacious scavenger, known for its maniacal laughter. [Zoology: Misc.]
  3. laughing gas (nitrous oxide) sweet-smelling, colorless gas; produces feeling of euphoria. [Medicine: Misc.]
  4. Thalia Muse of comedy [Gk. Myth.: Brewer Dictionary, 1071]

laughter

views updated May 18 2018

laugh·ter / ˈlaftər/ • n. the action or sound of laughing: he roared with laughter.

Laughter

views updated May 23 2018

Laughter

a clutch of eggs; a group of ostlersBk. of St. Albans, 1486.