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

When asked what it felt like to beat Sutton at predictions, AI claimed it didn't feel anything - but still appeared to be laughing at him.

From BBC • May 25, 2026

Harvey, who sat next to the King, said he seemed like a "true enthusiast of the theatre" and was "laughing away" during the performance.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

“But behind the scenes? Heidi and I were still thick as thieves, scheming side by side, laughing at how easy it was to keep the world guessing and the checks coming in.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

Everywhere he has shown the film, audiences have responded in largely the same way, often laughing so loudly they drown out lines of dialogue.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

“Thanks for your concern,” I say, trying to sound indignant, but I’m laughing, too.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison

Related Words

• humorous