The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

humor

IPA:

Dictionary definition of humor

The quality or characteristic of being amusing, funny, or entertaining.
"He has a knack for finding humor in everyday situations and making people laugh with his observations."

Detailed meaning of humor

It encompasses the ability to create laughter, amusement, or a sense of joy through jokes, wit, satire, or other forms of comedic expression. Humor can be found in various forms, such as verbal jokes, visual comedy, or situational irony. It serves as a means of bringing pleasure, lightness, and levity to human experiences and interactions. Humor has a subjective aspect, as what may be humorous to one person might not necessarily be funny to another. It plays a significant role in social bonding, easing tension, and creating a positive atmosphere. Additionally, humor can be used as a coping mechanism, helping individuals navigate difficult or challenging situations by providing a fresh perspective or emotional release through laughter.

Example sentences containing humor

1. His witty humor always brightens up the room and leaves everyone in stitches.
2. The comedian's humor resonated with the audience, who laughed uproariously throughout the show.
3. The sitcom is known for its clever humor and hilarious one-liners.
4. We shared a good sense of humor, often exchanging jokes and playful banter.
5. His self-deprecating humor endeared him to others, making him a popular figure among his peers.
6. The cartoon strip is loved for its lighthearted humor and witty social commentary.

History and etymology of humor

The noun 'humor,' in the sense of being amusing or entertaining, has its etymological roots in ancient beliefs about human temperament and health. It can be traced back to the ancient Greek concept of 'humors' or 'humours,' which were four bodily fluids thought to determine a person's physical and mental health: blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile. The word 'humor' itself comes from the Latin 'umor,' which means 'fluid' or 'liquid.' In the medical theories of the time, an individual's temperament and disposition were thought to be influenced by the balance and quality of these bodily fluids. Over time, this idea evolved, and by the medieval period, 'humor' began to be associated with a person's mental disposition and mood. The transition from bodily fluids to a person's emotional state eventually led to the modern sense of 'humor' as the quality or characteristic of being amusing, funny, or entertaining. Thus, the etymology of 'humor' is deeply intertwined with ancient beliefs about the balance of bodily fluids and their influence on human temperament.

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Further usage examples of humor

1. The stand-up comedian had the crowd roaring with laughter, showcasing his impeccable timing and sharp humor.
2. Despite the challenging circumstances, they managed to maintain their sense of humor and find reasons to smile.
3. The humorous anecdotes shared during the gathering created a warm and jovial atmosphere.
4. The movie's humor appealed to both children and adults, making it a hit for all age groups.
5. We bonded over our shared sense of humor, finding joy in making each other laugh.
6. Her unique brand of humor, a blend of sarcasm and wordplay, always keeps us entertained.
7. The best humor is often rooted in the quirks and idiosyncrasies of everyday life.
8. A well-developed sense of humor can be a valuable asset in building connections with others.
9. Great comedians have the ability to find humor in even the most mundane situations.
10. The humor in that TV show appeals to a wide audience, from kids to adults.
11. Humor has a way of breaking down barriers and bringing people together.
12. Dark humor, while controversial, can sometimes be a coping mechanism in difficult times.
13. His self-deprecating humor makes him endearing to everyone he meets.
14. Wit and humor are often the best tools for dealing with life's ups and downs.
15. The humor in that novel is subtle and requires a keen sense of observation to fully appreciate.
16. In the world of stand-up comedy, timing is everything, and a well-timed punchline can elevate the humor.
17. Humor can be a powerful tool for addressing societal issues and provoking thought.
18. Her humor is characterized by its clever wordplay and unexpected twists.
19. Laughter is the universal language of humor that transcends cultural boundaries.
20. Some people use humor as a defense mechanism to cope with adversity.
21. Humor can provide a temporary escape from the stresses of everyday life.
22. The humor in that movie is so infectious that you can't help but laugh along.
23. British humor is often known for its dry, understated wit.
24. A good sense of humor can make even the most challenging situations more bearable.
25. The humor in his stories often revolves around the absurdities of modern life.