VocabDictionary

chortle

/ˈtʃɔːrtəl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To laugh in a breathy, gleeful, or partly suppressed way, often expressing satisfaction or amusement.

Example Sentences:
  • The professor chortled with delight when he finally solved the complex equation.
  • She chortled at the absurdity of the situation as she read the ridiculous headline.
2.noun

A breathy, gleeful laugh.

Example Sentences:
  • A low chortle escaped him as he recalled the funny incident from his childhood.
  • The audience let out a collective chortle at the comedian's witty remark.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “chortle”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Coined by Lewis Carroll in his 1871 book 'Through the Looking-Glass'. It is a portmanteau, a linguistic blend of the words 'chuckle' and 'snort', created to describe the sound of a joyous, breathy laugh.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a CHuckle that ends in a snORT: CH-ORT-LE.

Frequently Asked Questions About “chortle

1. What is the meaning of “chortle” in English?

In English, chortle (verb) is defined as: “To laugh in a breathy, gleeful, or partly suppressed way, often expressing satisfaction or amusement.”.

2. How do you use “chortle” in a sentence?

The professor chortled with delight when he finally solved the complex equation.

3. What are English synonyms of “chortle”?

Common synonyms include:chuckle,giggle,snicker,cackle

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “chortle”?

Coined by Lewis Carroll in his 1871 book 'Through the Looking-Glass'. It is a portmanteau, a linguistic blend of the words 'chuckle' and 'snort', created to describe the sound of a joyous, breathy laugh.