NERVOUS LAUGHTER Meaning and
Definition
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Nervous laughter refers to a type of laughter that is expressed in response to feelings of uneasiness, anxiety, or discomfort. It is a spontaneous reaction whereby an individual laughs in awkward or tense situations as a means to alleviate or mask their nervous feelings. This type of laughter is often characterized by its distinct and sometimes forced or unnatural tone.
The underlying emotions that lead to nervous laughter typically stem from being faced with a situation that may be uncomfortable, embarrassing, or uncertain. It is a defense mechanism that may be triggered when an individual is feeling unsure about how to react or is trying to diffuse tension in social interactions. Nervous laughter can occur in various settings, including during public speaking engagements, job interviews, confrontations, or moments of heightened stress.
While nervous laughter may serve as a coping mechanism for individuals to gain a sense of control over their discomfort, it can also be indicative of emotional distress or psychological insecurity. It can sometimes be misconstrued by others as insincere or inappropriate, as it may contrast with the usual laughter that arises from genuine joy or amusement.
In summary, nervous laughter is a spontaneous and often forced type of laughter that arises in response to feelings of unease or anxiety. It serves as a mechanism to cope with uncomfortable situations or to ease tension in social interactions.
Etymology of NERVOUS LAUGHTER
The word "nervous laughter" is a phrase composed of two individual words: "nervous" and "laughter".
The term "nervous" derives from the Latin word "nervosus", which means "sinewy" or "tense". It originated from the Latin noun "nervus", meaning "nerve". Over time, "nervous" came to describe a state of anxiety, tension, or unease, often related to the nervous system or the ability to transmit signals.
"Laughter" comes from the Middle English word "laught(er);" it evolved from the Old English word "hlǣhthu", which ultimately stems from the Proto-Germanic root "*hlahjanan". This term referred to the expression of joy or amusement through vocal sounds.
