guffaw
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɡəˈfɔː/
KK: /gəˈfɔ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To laugh loudly and in a way that shows great amusement.
Example
When he heard the joke, he couldn't help but guffaw loudly.
Tense Forms
Past: guffawed
Past Participle: guffawed
Conversation
Did you see that video of the cat doing tricks?
Yes! I couldn't help but guffaw at how silly it was.
Right? I love how animals can be so funny.
Absolutely, they always make me guffaw!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
laugh
chortle
cackle
Antonyms
sigh
frown
mourn
noun
Definition
A loud and hearty laugh that is often very noticeable.
Example
His guffaw filled the room and made everyone else laugh too.
Conversation
Did you hear that joke about the cat?
No, I haven't! Was it funny?
Oh, it made everyone guffaw at the party last night!
Root Explanation
Guffaw originates from the early 19th century, likely derived from the Scottish word 'guff' (meaning to cough or to make a noise) combined with the suffix '-aw', which is an exclamation. The word describes a loud, boisterous laugh, often associated with hearty amusement.
Memory Tip
Imagine a loud, hearty laugh that starts with a noise ('guff') and ends with an exclamation ('-aw'). This helps you remember that 'guffaw' means to laugh loudly.
Visually Confused Words
gufa