Guffaw - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

A guffaw is a loud, unrestrained burst of laughter. It's a hearty, boisterous sound that fills the room and leaves no doubt about the person's amusement. Think of it as the sound of pure, unadulterated joy erupting from within. πŸ˜„ It's much more pronounced than a chuckle or a giggle and lacks any sense of refinement. A guffaw often accompanies a surprising or extremely funny joke, a slapstick moment, or a shared experience of mirth. It's like a sonic boom of laughter.

Etymology

The origin of "guffaw" is believed to be imitative, mimicking the sound of a loud laugh. It likely emerged in the 16th century. The word's onomatopoeic nature perfectly captures the explosive sound it represents. Its etymology is simple and direct, reflecting the straightforward nature of the laugh itself.

Related Words

Examples

  • "He let out a loud guffaw when he heard the punchline."
  • "The audience erupted in guffaws at the comedian's antics."
  • "His joke was met with hearty guffaws from everyone in the room."
  • "I could hear his guffaw echoing down the hallway."

Anecdote / Story

Remember the scene in *Guardians of the Galaxy* where Peter Quill tries to explain his plan to the others, and Drax just starts openly laughing? That’s a guffaw. It's a big, booming laugh that doesn't care about being polite or subtle. It’s a pure, unfiltered reaction to something hilarious.

Encouragement

Don't hold back your guffaws! Embrace the moment and let your laughter ring out. It's a sign of genuine joy and can brighten the mood for everyone around you. πŸ₯³ Spread the laughter and enjoy the moment!

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