chuckling
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈtʃʌk.lɪŋ/
KK: /ˈtʃʌk.lɪŋ/
noun
Definition
A soft, quiet laugh that shows amusement or happiness.
Example
Her chuckling made everyone around her smile.
Conversation
Did you hear that joke about the chicken?
No, I haven't! Tell me, I love a good laugh.
It had everyone in the room chuckling for minutes.
Sounds hilarious! I can't wait to hear it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
giggle
snicker
chortle
Antonyms
scream
shout
cry
verb
Definition
To make a quiet, soft laugh, often in response to something amusing or funny.
Example
She was chuckling at the funny joke he told.
Tense Forms
Past: chuckled
Past Participle: chuckled
Conversation
Did you see that funny video I sent you earlier?
Yes! I was chuckling the whole time.
Right? It's amazing how creative people can be online.
Root Explanation
Chuckling originates from the Middle English 'chukle', which is imitative in nature, meaning to make a soft, suppressed laugh. The word does not have clear Latin or Greek roots but is derived from the sound associated with the act of chuckling.
Memory Tip
Imagine the soft sound of laughter that comes from a gentle, suppressed giggle — that's what chuckling means.
Visually Confused Words
chickling
suckling
shucking
ruckling
puckling
duckling
cockling
buckling