risibility

[ riz-uh-bil-i-tee ]

noun

, plural ris·i·bil·i·ties.

1. Often risibilities. the ability or disposition to laugh; humorous awareness of the ridiculous and absurd.
2. laughter.

risibility

/ ˌrɪzɪˈbɪlɪtɪ /

noun

1. a tendency to laugh
2. hilarity; laughter

Word History and Origins

Origin of risibility¹

From the Late Latin word rīsibilitās, dating back to 1610–20. See risible, -ity

Example Sentences

His great talent was to take tiny grains of information in reports and proposals, repackage them as official European policy and present them as part of a broad narrative about Brussels’ risibility.

From Seattle Times

What is the difference — in fact, and in risibility — between a hobo and a bum?

From Washington Post

His light-heartedness and risibility were often assumed to hide bitter resentment or boiling indignation.

From Project Gutenberg

With much effort, the risibility of the jokers was kept in subjection through the meal.

From Project Gutenberg

Another roar of laughter from Smithers and his friends succeeded this confession, and the perpetrators of the practical joke indulged their risibilities to the full; evidently congratulating themselves upon the success of their plans.

From Project Gutenberg