Funny

Definition

Funny is an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes something that causes laughter or amusement. It can also mean strange or unusual. As a noun, it refers informally to jokes, humor, or something comical.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfʌni/
• Respelling: FUH-nee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfʌni/
• Respelling: FUH-nee

Etymology

The word "funny" originates from the Old English "fon," meaning "fool," which evolved into the Middle English "fonny," referring to foolishness or silliness. By the 18th century, the meaning expanded to include "humorous" or "causing amusement."

Derivatives

• Funniness (noun)
• Funnybone (noun)
• Funny-looking (adjective)
• Funniest (adjective, superlative)
• Funnily (adverb)

Synonyms

• Humorous
• Comical
• Amusing

Antonyms

• Serious
• Solemn
• None

Usage

The adjective "funny" is used to describe things that provoke laughter, e.g., "The movie was really funny." It can also indicate something unusual or suspicious, as in "There's something funny about his story." The noun form is less common but appears in phrases like "He loves telling funnies."

Related Terms

• Humor: The quality of being amusing or entertaining.
• Joke: A thing that someone says to cause amusement or laughter.
• Comedy: A genre of entertainment designed to make an audience laugh.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Causing laughter or amusement: Refers to something humorous or comical.
  • Example: "His jokes are always so funny."
• Strange or unusual: Describes something peculiar or odd.
  • Example: "It’s funny how things worked out in the end."

Noun

• Jokes or humor: Informal usage referring to comical content.
  • Example: "He’s always coming up with new funnies to make us laugh."