Synonyms for

Chuckle

Verb / ˈtʃʌkʌl / Another word for chuckle — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To laugh quietly or inwardly

Synonyms & similar words

chortle laughsoftly giggle snicker chortle laugh guffaw snigger titter snerk heh giggle-snort smirk tee-hee snort cackle roar haw-haw ho-ho ha-ha howl yuk

Synonyms by register

Formal

chortle guffaw titter

Informal

giggle snicker laugh cackle

Literary

simper smirk

Antonyms

weep sob cry lament mourn groan

Common collocations

  • a soft chuckle
  • a quiet chuckle
  • a hearty chuckle
  • a suppressed chuckle
  • a nervous chuckle
  • a knowing chuckle
  • a deep chuckle

Word family

noun chuckle
verb chuckle

Usage note

Chuckle refers to a quiet, suppressed laugh. It is generally a positive and good-natured sound. Avoid using it for loud or boisterous laughter.

Example sentences

  1. She tried to stifle a chuckle at her brother's silly joke.
  2. The baby's chuckle was contagious and soon everyone in the room was laughing.
  3. I couldn't help but chuckle at the funny scene in the movie.
  4. The comedian's jokes always make me chuckle.
  5. He let out a loud chuckle when he heard the news.

Quotes

  • A smile starts on the lips, a grin spreads to the eyes, a chuckle comes from the belly; but a good laugh bursts forth from the soul, overflows, and bubbles all around.
  • A chuckle a day keeps the doctor away.
  • A chuckle a day keeps the psychiatrist away.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words