laughing

American  

[laf-ing, lah-fing] / ˈlæf ɪŋ, ˈlɑ fɪŋ /

adjective

1. that laughs or is given to laughter.

   a laughing child.

2. uttering sounds like human laughter, as some birds.

3. suggesting laughter by brightness, color, sound, etc..

   a laughing stream; laughing flowers.

4. laughable.

   The increase in crime is no laughing matter.

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noun

1. laughter.

Other Word Forms

• laughingly adverb
• unlaughing adjective

Etymology

Origin of laughing

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; see origin at laugh, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

And then they start laughing, and they explained to me what’s ham and what’s hamburger.”

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2026

“Look at that tiny window and carpet of decay,” she said, laughing at the twin bed and messy floor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

"Not in my lifetime," said a laughing Ferguson when asked if City, following their 2008 takeover, would ever be top dogs in Manchester.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

After laughing it off at the tee, Nicklaus explained to reporters why he predicted his shot might be a little wild.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

When she reached him, he grabbed hold of the handlebars and she dismounted, falling against him as they both stood there, laughing.

From "Code Name Kingfisher" by Liz Kessler

Related Words

• humorous