"On a laughing jag" is a colloquial phrase used to describe someone who cannot stop laughing. The word "jag" is spelled with a soft "j" sound as in "judge," and it is pronounced using the IPA phonetic transcription as /dʒæɡ/. The use of the word "jag" in this context originated in American slang during the early 1900s. In British English, the phrase "on a laughing spree" is often used instead, though both convey the same meaning.
The phrase "on a laughing jag" refers to a state of uncontrollable and prolonged laughter, often accompanied by an inability to stop oneself from laughing or even speaking coherently. It denotes a situation where someone finds something extremely humorous or funny, causing them to burst into fits of laughter that seem incessant and continuous.
When someone is "on a laughing jag," it typically implies that the laughter is intense, unrestrained, and beyond their control. It might be triggered by a joke, an amusing incident, an absurd situation, or even a euphoric state of mind. This expression is often used to describe a person who is experiencing a bout of excessive laughter, where their laughter becomes contagious, making others around them also laugh or smile.
During a laughing jag, individuals might exhibit physical symptoms such as tears streaming down their face, clutching their stomachs, or struggling to breathe due to the intensity of the laughter. They may find it challenging to articulate themselves, as their uncontrollable laughter may hinder their ability to speak or communicate effectively.
Moreover, being "on a laughing jag" does not imply a negative or negative emotional state but rather signifies a moment of immense joy, amusement, or delight. It can be seen as a welcome diversion from the seriousness of everyday life or a means to release pent-up emotions in a lighthearted manner.
Overall, the phrase "on a laughing jag" describes a state where one is consumed by uncontrollable, extended bouts of laughter, brought on by a source of great amusement.