giggle

[gig-uhl]

verb (used without object)

giggled, giggling 

1. to laugh in a silly, often high-pitched way, especially with short, repeated gasps and titters, as from juvenile or ill-concealed amusement or nervous embarrassment.

   Synonyms: chuckle, snigger, snicker

noun

1. a silly, spasmodic laugh; titter.

   Synonyms: chuckle, snigger, snicker

2. Slang.,  an amusing experience, incident, etc..

   Going to a silly movie was always a giggle.

giggle

/ ˈɡɪɡəl /

verb

1. (intr) to laugh nervously or foolishly

noun

1. such a laugh

2. informal,  something or someone that provokes amusement

3. a fit of prolonged and uncontrollable giggling

4. informal,  as a joke or prank; not seriously

Other Word Forms

• giggler noun
• gigglingly adverb
• giggly adjective
• giggling noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of giggle¹

1500–10; imitative; compare Dutch gigelen, German gickeln. See -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of giggle¹

C16: of imitative origin

Example Sentences

“I’ve got to go to the next question,” she said, underscored by a giggle.

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When asked if they would like a little more time to catch their breath in between releases, Keeho pauses to translate after which quirky singer and dancer Soul deadpans, “Yes!” dissolving them into giggles.

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He’s greeted by giggling women who hand him a drink and put flower leis around his neck before the president meets him and gives him a brief tour of Mar-a-Lago.

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Towering over the locals, the players drew giggles and wide-eyed stares.

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The pair look at each other coyly, nervously giggling - there has been no announcement of Colman being involved in the films.

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Related Words

• cackle 
• chuckle 
• guffaw 
• laugh 
• snicker