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laugh
A physical manifestation of amusement that ranges from a quiet giggle to an explosive roar. It is the universal sound of joy, relief, or irony. While usually positive, it carries a sharp duality when directed at others. There is a clear emotional divide between laughing 'with' someone (shared connection) and laughing 'at' someone (social aggression or mockery). Unlike 'smile', which is silent and can be polite or fake, a laugh is an audible release of tension. It often signals a loss of control over one's composure, making it feel more authentic and spontaneous than a smile.
Countable when referring to a person's unique, characteristic sound ('He has a wheezy laugh'). Uncountable when referring to the general act or state of laughter ('The room was filled with loud laugh and chatter').
💬Conversación Casual
My bank account balance is actually a joke. I can't even laugh anymore.
Stop blowing your cash on iced coffee and you might actually get by.