Headway Word of the Week
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laugh
To laugh means to make a noise that shows you find something funny or you're very happy.
- The comedian was very funny. We laughed out loud.
You can also laugh when you're nervous, or to make fun of someone.
- Paula gave a nervous laugh, then went in for her job interview.
- Everybody laughed at Jim because he looked so stupid.
Check out phrasal verbs
- laugh sth off
( = to ignore)
The reviews for my early plays were terrible, but I just laughed them off, and continued writing. - laugh sb down
( = to laugh at someone so much that they can't continue with a public speech)
The politician began his speech, but everyone treated him with ridicule. They laughed him down.
Check out expressions
- Monica just laughed in his face.
(= she didn't show him any respect) - I don't know whether to laugh or cry.
( = I'm not sure how to react to this bad news) - It's no laughing matter.
( = you should take this more seriously) - Sally was laughing all the way to the bank.
( = she made a lot of money easily) - You'll be laughing on the other side of your face in a minute.
( = something will happen to stop you feeling so pleased) - The audience laughed their heads off.
( = they found it very funny) - We always have a laugh when we go out together.
( = we have fun) - Philip had the last laugh.
( = everyone laughed when he was at first unsuccessful, but then he tried again and was successful) - Jenny is good for a laugh.
( = Jenny is fun to be with)
Check out other related words
- giggle
- chuckle
⇒ Learn more words in the Word of the Week archive