chortle
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈtʃɔːrtl/
KK: /ˈtʃɔrtəl/
noun
Definition
A joyful laugh or chuckle that often sounds snorting.
Example
Her chortle filled the room with happiness.
Conversation
Did you hear that joke about the chicken?
Yeah, it made me chortle out loud!
I can't believe how funny it was.
I know! I love a good chortle in the middle of the day.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chuckle
giggle
snicker
Antonyms
sigh
groan
whimper
transitive verb
Definition
To laugh in a joyful, chuckling way, often while expressing amusement or delight.
Example
She couldn't help but chortle at the funny joke.
Tense Forms
Past: chortled
Past Participle: chortled
Conversation
Did you hear that joke about the chicken?
No, but I bet it made everyone chortle.
It really did! Everyone was laughing so hard.
Root Explanation
The word 'chortle' is a blend of 'chuckle' (meaning to laugh quietly) and 'snort' (meaning to make a sudden sound through the nose). It describes a joyful, snorting laugh that combines elements of both sounds.
Memory Tip
Imagine a joyful laugh that combines a quiet chuckle and a sudden snort — that's what 'chortle' means.
Visually Confused Words
whortle
courtlet
chlorite
chlorate