laugh track

American  

noun

1. a separate sound track of prerecorded laughter added to the sound track of a radio or television program to enhance or feign audience responses.

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Etymology

Origin of laugh track

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

In 2021, researchers concluded that a laugh track “may socially facilitate viewers’ responses and succeed in increasing the perceived humor and enjoyability of a television comedic sitcom.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

With its distinctive slap bass and riotous laugh track, “Seinfeld” both captures a singular moment in 1990s Manhattan and transcends its era.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 22, 2024

A humorous—but perhaps effective addition—would be to insert a laugh track every time he told a lie.

From Salon • Sep. 22, 2023

Grab the limo driver, we’re going to Sharper Image and buying a robot bartender and an automated laugh track.

From Washington Post • Feb. 16, 2023

She was also louder than the sirens wailing outside or the laugh track of her TV shows hooting and hollering day and night.

From "The School for Whatnots" by Margaret Peterson Haddix