levity

[lev-i-tee]

noun

plural

levities 

1. lightness of mind, character, or behavior; lack of appropriate seriousness or earnestness.

   Synonyms: giddiness, triviality, flippancy, frivolity

2. an instance or exhibition of this.

   Synonyms: giddiness, triviality, flippancy, frivolity

3. fickleness.

4. lightness in weight.

levity

/ ˈlɛvɪtɪ /

noun

1. inappropriate lack of seriousness

2. fickleness or instability

3. archaic,  lightness in weight

Word History and Origins

Origin of levity¹

1555–65; < Latin levitās lightness, frivolity, equivalent to levi ( s ) light + -tās -ty ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of levity¹

C16: from Latin levitās lightness, from levis light

Example Sentences

“I guess a little bit of levity in a game like that is certainly helpful,” manager Dave Roberts said.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s intimate drama laced with mysticism, an adult theme ultimately handled with a hint of levity for this family-friendly show.

From Los Angeles Times

On one hand, he was thrilled by its levity.

From Los Angeles Times

There were unexpected moments of levity in among the momentous decisions over the looming threat from Russia and raising defence spending to levels not seen since the Cold War.

From BBC

We wanted to mix levity and humor with our heavy drama and emotional stuff.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• frivolity 
• giddiness 
• hilarity 
• mirth 
• repartee