Humour

Definition

Humour (or "humor" in American English) is a noun that refers to the quality of being amusing, entertaining, or comical. It can also describe a person's ability to perceive and express the funny or absurd aspects of life. Historically, it referred to bodily fluids thought to affect temperament and health.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhjuːmɚ/
• Respelling: HYOO-muhr

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhjuːmə/
• Respelling: HYOO-muh

Etymology

The word "humour" originates from Latin "humor," meaning "moisture" or "fluid," and from Old French "humor." In medieval physiology, it referred to bodily fluids that influenced a person's mood. Its modern meaning as "amusing quality" developed in the late 16th century.

Derivatives

• Humorous (adjective)
• Humorist (noun)
• Humourless (adjective)
• Humourful (adjective)
• Humorously (adverb)

Synonyms

• Comedy
• Amusement
• Wit

Antonyms

• Seriousness
• Gravitas
• Solemnity

Usage

The term "humour" is widely used to describe comedy, wit, or entertainment. For example, "The play was full of clever humour," or "She used her sense of humour to defuse the tension."

Related Terms

• Comedy: A genre of entertainment intended to amuse.
• Satire: The use of humour to criticize or mock.
• Irony: A form of humour involving incongruity.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The quality of being amusing or comical: Refers to the ability to provoke laughter or entertainment.
  • Example: "The novel's subtle humour made it a delight to read."
• A person's sense of what is funny: Describes an individual's capacity to perceive and express amusement.
  • Example: "Her sharp humour was well-known among her friends."
• Historical: Bodily fluids affecting temperament: Refers to the medieval belief that bodily fluids ("humours") influenced personality and health.
  • Example: "In ancient medicine, an imbalance of humours was thought to cause illness."